I. Introduction:

To establish a position relative to another position on the face of the Earth, one must know how that point is in reference to where you are at, the current position (CP). The CP is a very important point as you will ALWAYS need this when navigating.  We shall define four basic cardinal directions and in between them, there shall be many more subdirections or combination directions.¹

II. Basic Techniques:

The techniques below will give you general north, south, east, and west directions

1. Experience & Local Observance:

The most basic technique is to use the past experience in the terrain where you are at and pick up the native customs in that area to find your direction. When you are familiar with the area around you, you won't need additional tools to navigate. Your best tool is the brain inside your head. You only need to know your current position (CP). Examples are listed here:

• Most beaches in Viet-Nam face due East.
• Most beaches in CA face due West.
• Beaches in NY face due East.
• Houses in the rural sections of Viet-Nam for the most part face due South-East. ¹
• Freeway-22 runs along a East & West direction.
• Freeway-55 (fwy-55) runs along a North & South direction.

2. In Wooded Forest Areas.

To determine the northern direction in a wooded forest area, look for these signs:

• Sides of rock or trees that have the algae or fungus growing.
• Sides of the tree that have dark barks.
• Sides of the tree that have small tree rings.

3. In The Desert:

When in the desert, look for the cactus that are leaning. It will lean toward the south or south-west direction, depending on the zone you're in.

4. Along A Running Water Source:

When lost, and you cannot use any of the methods above, follow the water downstream.