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One type of compass is a magnetic or electronic device that shows the cardinal directions by indicating North (Magnetic or True). It is used for finding directions.

Another type of compass can also be known as "dividers", depending on whether or not they contain a pencil. They look like two sticks joined together at one end with a hinge. This allows the points of the sticks to spread or close. This device is used to measure distances on maps or charts & for plotting courses. The type with a pencil is used for drawing circles.

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A compass (singular) is used to find direction and location (the latter by plotting intersecting bearings on the map).

[A pair of] compasses (plural) is not the same as dividers. Compasses have a pencil or pen for drawing circles & arcs; dividers have two sharp steel points.

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9y ago

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