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.