Read Next: How to Make a Compass How to Use the Compass. A compass is more effective with the aid of a map. Together, they can pinpoint your exact location and the direction you need to head.

Preparation • Cut your paper into four pieces, and label each one with a cardinal direction (North, South, East or West). • Carefully cut off a circular piece of cork about half an inch thick.

The four cardinal points on a compass of north, east, south and west are defined by the physical realities of the magnetic North Pole (north-south) and the rising and setting of the sun (east-west).

Four Points of the Compass: The Unexpected History of Direction by Jerry Brotton Allen Lane £20, 208 pages Join our online book group on Facebook at FT Books Café and subscribe to our podcast ...