While proceeding up a channel on course 010° per gyro compass, you notice a pair of range lights in alignment with the masts of your vessel when viewed forward. A check of the chart shows the range to be 009°T and the variation to be 15°W. If the ship's course is 026°psc, what is the deviation for the present heading?
Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation
Correct Answer: Option C — 2°W
True range is 009°T and variation is 15°W, making the magnetic heading 024°M. Comparing this magnetic value to the ship's standard compass heading of 026°psc determines a deviation of 2°W using standard deviation formulas (Magnetic East, Compass Least).
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