Metal can affect the reading your compass gives you. Make sure
that you are away from any large metal objects such as housing or cars.
Electric fields can also alter your reading. A running car or cell phone
tower can change your reading by 20 to 60 degrees so be sure to take this
into account when getting your bearings.
Storage of a compass is also very important. If a compass is
exposed to metal or a magnetic field for an extended period of time the
needle may become demagnetized. Avoid storing your compass near
electronics or directly on or near metal surfaces.
Cardinal Points are the four basic directions on a compass:
North, South, East and West.
Bearing is the word used to express your direction of travel
in degrees. You will follow your bearing to get to your selected
destination.