Which term describes the direction directly in line, opposite to your current heading (for example, 270-090)?

• A. Reciprocal direction
• B. Heading
• C. Bearing
• D. Course

Answer: (A)

The direction directly opposite your current heading is called the reciprocal direction. In navigation, heading is where the bow points, while the reciprocal direction is the exact opposite line of travel. You find it by adding 180 degrees to your heading (mod 360). For example, a heading of 270 degrees (west) has a reciprocal direction of 090 degrees (east). The other terms don’t fit this idea: heading is just the forward orientation, bearing is the direction to a point relative to north, and course is the intended path of travel. The reciprocal direction specifically describes the opposite direction of your current heading, which is why it’s the correct choice.