Using the Compass

The compass draws a simple arc with the outline and fill characteristics of the Pen .

From the Tools Menu, select MathsTools > Compass. You can have more than one compass.

To set up the compass, click on its various parts:

  • Click on the left arm to move the compass around the page.

  • Place the spike where you want the centre of rotation.

  • Click on the right arm to rotate the compass without drawing.

  • Click on the pencil holder to widen the span of the compass.  

  • Click on the hinge to hide the compass.

When you are ready to draw, hover with the pen near the tip of the pencil.

The cursor jumps or snaps to the pencil tip.

Click and drag to draw your arc.

 

Advanced options

You need ActivInspire Professional to use these options.

Click on the Compass and select one or more of the following:

  • Reflected - places the pencil on the left and the spike on the right.

  • Show Angle - displays the angle of the arms in degrees.

  • Show Radius - displays the radius.

  • Mark Centre - inserts a + in the centre of the circle.

  • Increase Length - Lengthens the arms.

  • Decrease Length - Shortens the arms.

  • Reset Length - resets the length of the arms to the default.

  • Close