The primary use of a compass is to determine direction. A compass is a navigational instrument that points towards magnetic north, allowing users to establish their orientation relative to the Earth’s magnetic field. This capability makes compasses invaluable for navigation in various contexts, including hiking, sailing, and orienteering. They consist of a magnetized needle that aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field, making it possible to find other cardinal directions: east, west, and south. Compasses are essential tools for explorers, adventurers, and anyone requiring reliable direction in unfamiliar terrain.