Perpendicular Lines at Given Point

There are many ways to construct perpendicular lines. Here we go through where you want two perpendicular lines to cross a specific point.Explore perpendicular lines and 90 degree angle for other examples of perpendicularity. There are even more out there!

Scroll down to step through the instructions.

01. Start with a line.

02. Identify the point at which a perpendicular line is needed.

Secure a length of string or rope at this point and extend the string or rope some distance. Draw two circular arcs that intersect the starting line on both sides of the center point.

03. Identify the points of intersection between these arcs and the initial line and label these points A and B.

04. Secure one end of your string or rope at point B and extend it a length that is less than the length of line AB but greater than one half of AB.

Draw a circular arc that passes through the initial line.

05. Secure one end of your string or rope at point A and extend it a length that is less than the length of line AB but greater than one half of AB.

Draw a circular arc that passes through the initial line.

06. Identify the points of intersection of arc A and arc B.

Draw a line that passes through these points.

07. You have created two perpendicular lines at a given point!