STEM Excellence Series: Empowering the Next Generation

COMPASS DRAWING

Compass Drawing

Definition Of Compass Drawing

Compass is a tool used for drawing circles, arcs or other geometrical constructions.

More About Compass Drawing

There are two arms in a compass. One arm is sharp and other arm can hold a pencil for construction.

Video Examples:How to draw angles 30 45 60 90 degrees with Compass

Example of Compass Drawing

example of Compass_Drawing

The above figure is a compass and is used to draw circles of different radii.

Solved Example on Compass Drawing

Ques: Identify the correct statement for the construction.

Choices:

A. Use a compass to bisect all three angles in a triangle. Use the point of intersection of the bisectors as the center of a circle that circumscribes the triangle.
B. Use a compass to bisect all three angles in a triangle. Use the point of intersection of the bisectors as the center of a circle that is inscribed in the triangle.
C. Use a compass to draw the perpendicular bisectors of the three sides in a triangle. Use the point of intersection of these bisectors as the center of a circle that circumscribes the triangle.
D. Use a compass to draw the perpendicular bisectors of the three sides in a triangle. Use the point of intersection of these bisectors as the center of a circle that is inscribed in the triangle.
Correct Answer: B

Solution:

Step 1: The correct statement: Use a compass to bisect all three angles in a triangle. Use the point of intersection of the bisectors as the center of a circle that is inscribed in the triangle.

Quick Summary

  • A compass is used to draw circles and arcs.
  • Compass drawings are used to construct geometric figures accurately.
  • Common constructions include bisecting angles, drawing perpendicular lines, and creating regular polygons.
\[ null \]

🍎 Teacher Insights

Encourage students to practice each construction multiple times to develop muscle memory. Emphasize the importance of accuracy and precision. Relate compass drawings to real-world applications, such as architectural design and mapmaking.

🎓 Prerequisites

  • Basic understanding of geometric shapes (circles, triangles)
  • Knowledge of angle and line bisectors
  • Familiarity with using a ruler

Check Your Knowledge

Q1: Which of the following is NOT typically constructed using a compass?

Q2: What is the primary purpose of using a compass in geometric constructions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between a compass and a protractor?
A: A compass is used to draw circles and arcs, while a protractor is used to measure angles.

Q: Why is a straightedge used instead of a ruler with markings?
A: A straightedge is used for purely geometric constructions, avoiding reliance on numerical measurements.

© 2026 iCoachMath Global Math Glossary. All Rights Reserved.