Compass and Straight Edge Construction

Geometric construction is a classic form of math that studies building forms and shapes using a compass and straight edge. Modern mathematics has evolved to favor the Cartesian Coordinate System for modeling these types of problems, especially when a computer is involved. That being said, these types of geometric problems are interesting and worth studying as they are useful in construction, art and problem-solving in general.

Constructing Shapes

Construct Equilateral Triangle

This example demonstrates how to construct an equilateral triangle using a compass and ruler. An equilateral triangle is a triangle whose sides are of equal length.

Construct Golden Rectangle

How to build the golden rectangle using a compass and ruler. This geometric construction also demonstrates how to find the golden ratio.

Construct Pentagon

This example demonstrates how to construct a pentagon using a straight edge and ruler. A hexagon is a polygon with five equal-length sides.

Construct Hexagon

This example demonstrates how to construct a hexagon using a straight edge and ruler. A hexagon is a polygon with six equal-length sides.

Utility

Bisect Angle

How to divide an angle into two equal parts using a compass and straight edge.

Bisect Line

How to bisect a line with a compass and straight edge.

Construct Perpendicular Line

How to construct a perpendicular line given a straight line.