Which of the following is NOT a field expedient method of determining direction?

• A. Shadow tip method
• B. Watch method
• C. North star method
• D. Compass method

Answer: (D)

In field navigation without a dedicated instrument, you rely on simple, readily available cues from the environment to determine direction. The shadow tip method uses the sun’s movement: mark the shadow’s tip at different times and connect the marks to form an east-west line, then use the sun’s position to infer north-south. The watch method uses a timekeeping device by aligning the hour hand with the sun and bisecting the angle toward 12 o’clock to establish a north-south line. The North Star method (Polaris) gives a direct cue to true north when the star is visible, providing a reliable nighttime reference.

The compass method, however, requires a compass—an intentionally manufactured instrument designed to point toward magnetic or true north. That makes it not a field-expedient technique, since it isn’t improvised from natural cues or everyday items.