USCG Exam PracticeThree-bearing fix and cocked-hat triangle
Which statement best describes how to interpret the size of a cocked hat when taking a three-bearing fix?
- A. A large cocked hat indicates a strong fix; a small one signals a plotting error
- ✓ A small cocked hat indicates a good fix; a large one signals bearing or plotting errorCorrect
- C. A small cocked hat indicates the LOPs were not taken simultaneously
- D. A large cocked hat is expected when objects are well separated and is acceptable
Why B is correct
Per Bowditch Ch. 7 §705, a small cocked hat indicates a good fix, while a large one signals bearing or plotting error. The size is inversely related to fix quality.
Cited:Bowditch Ch. 7 §705