What are the two ways to hold a compass?

Holding a compass is essential for effective navigation, and the techniques you use can greatly impact the accuracy of your readings. The correct answer highlights two specific methods: center hold and compass to cheek.

In the center hold, the compass is held at the center of the body, keeping the arm close to the torso. This position stabilizes the compass and reduces the chances of parallax errors, allowing for more accurate readings by minimizing movement. It's particularly useful in situations where you need to quickly assess your bearing and location.

On the other hand, the compass to cheek technique involves bringing the compass up to your cheek for alignment. This method allows for rapid and accurate sighting, as it enables the user to properly orient the compass with respect to their line of sight. It’s an effective way to ensure the compass is level and aligned properly with distant landmarks when taking a bearing.

These two methods are favored because they enhance the user's ability to take accurate readings while ensuring that the compass remains steady and aligned with the intended direction. Other choices list methods that may not be widely recognized or practical for accurate navigation, thereby reinforcing the significance of the techniques mentioned in the correct answer.