Degrees to Direction Calculator

Convert degrees to cardinal directions (N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, NW) with our precise degrees to direction calculator. Learn how to interpret compass bearings and use them in navigation, surveying, and orientation.

How to Use This Calculator

Using our degrees to direction calculator is simple:

Enter the degree value you want to convert in the input field.
Select the direction format (cardinal or ordinal) if needed.
Click the "Calculate" button to see the result.
Review the detailed explanation and chart visualization.

The calculator will display the corresponding cardinal direction and show it on a compass chart for visual reference.

How Degrees to Direction Works

Degrees to direction conversion is based on the standard compass system where:

0° and 360° point to North (N)
90° points to East (E)
180° points to South (S)
270° points to West (W)

Intermediate directions are calculated by dividing the compass into 8 equal parts (45° each):

Formula Used

Direction = (Degree / 45) mod 8

Where the result is mapped to: N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, NW

The calculator handles all degree values from 0 to 360 and provides both cardinal and ordinal direction options.

Examples of Degree Conversions

Here are some example conversions to demonstrate how the calculator works:

Degrees	Cardinal Direction	Ordinal Direction
0°	N	North
45°	NE	Northeast
90°	E	East
135°	SE	Southeast
180°	S	South
225°	SW	Southwest
270°	W	West
315°	NW	Northwest

These examples show how the calculator converts standard compass bearings to their corresponding directions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between cardinal and ordinal directions?: Cardinal directions are the primary compass points (N, E, S, W) while ordinal directions include the intermediate points (NE, SE, SW, NW).
How do I convert degrees to direction manually?: Divide the degree value by 45 and use the remainder to determine the direction. For example, 135° ÷ 45 = 3, which corresponds to SE.
Can I use this calculator for aviation navigation?: Yes, this calculator is useful for aviation navigation where precise compass bearings are required. The standard compass system is used in aviation.
What if I enter a degree value outside 0-360?: The calculator will automatically normalize the value by taking modulo 360, so 370° becomes 10°.
How accurate is this degrees to direction conversion?: The conversion is mathematically precise based on the standard compass system. The calculator uses standard rounding for intermediate directions.