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Learned it in boy scouts.
The basics are not that difficult, really. And usually are sufficient to get you where you need to go.
If I stay on the paths, I hardly ever use the compass. Make sure you know where you are at the beginning and then just keep track by comparing the environment with the map every once in a while. You don't really need any prior experience with maps to do that, just some common sense.
I only triangulate if I go off the track or if I'm lost.
Don't underestimate the planning of your route. Take your time to carefully look at all the obstacles on your path before you head out.
In the beginning I was too hasty with this and tended to neglect looking at things like contour lines. Having to add a few kilometers to your hike because you find out half way that you can't go any further on your planned route is frustrating as hell. Especialy when it could have been avoided by taking a few extra minutes to look at the map carefully.
I'd love to hear what kind of compass you guys use.
I was taught on recta DP compasses, but I personally use a silva ranger type 15 (pic related).
Having the baseplate is pretty convenient, imo.
Might invest in something with a clinometer in the future, but for now it's more than fine.
