When specifying bearings, what geographical direction is often used?

In surveying and navigational contexts, bearings are typically expressed in terms of angle measurements from a reference direction, often the North. When specifying bearings, the common practice is to begin from North and then indicate the direction either clockwise or counterclockwise (for instance, North 30 degrees East or South 45 degrees West). This convention simplifies understanding and communication regarding directions and orientations on maps and plans.

North serves as a universally recognized reference point because it corresponds to the North Pole and plays a crucial role in coordinate systems. Due to its foundational importance in navigation and cartography, utilizing North as the starting point when conveying bearings helps ensure clarity and uniformity across various fields, including engineering, architecture, and land surveying.