======The Four-Point Spell======
=====Spell Information=====
  * **Incantation:** [[Point Me]]
  * **Pronunciation:** //POINT-mee// (Standard English)
  * **Wand Movement:** Placing the [[wand]] flat upon the open palm of the hand.
  * **Light:** None described.
  * **Effect:** Causes the tip of the caster's [[wand]] to point due north, functioning as a magical [[compass]].
  * **Type:** [[Charm]]
=====History and Known Uses=====
The Four-Point Spell is a navigational [[charm]] that causes the caster's [[wand]] to point north. It was first introduced in 1995 when [[Hermione Granger]] taught it to [[Harry Potter]] to help him prepare for the Third Task of the [[Triwizard Tournament]].
Its most significant use was by Harry during the Third Task inside the magically constructed [[maze]]. The maze's hedges confused a wizard's sense of direction, making conventional navigation difficult. Harry cast `[[Point Me]]` multiple times to orient himself and determine the correct path to take through the labyrinth.
Harry used the spell again in 1996 during the battle at the [[Department of Mysteries]]. After being separated from his friends in a circular room with identical, spinning doors, he cast the spell to regain his bearings and determine which door he had just entered through, in an attempt to find the others.
=====Learning and Counter-Spells=====
The spell appears to be relatively simple to learn and master, as [[Harry Potter]] successfully cast it immediately after [[Hermione Granger]] demonstrated it to him. It is not mentioned as part of the standard [[Hogwarts]] curriculum, at least not by the fourth year, suggesting it may be a more obscure or specialized [[charm]].
There are no known counter-spells for this [[charm]]. Given its function as a personal utility spell, it is unlikely that a direct counter-spell exists or would be necessary. The spell's main limitation is that it only points north; it cannot guide a user to a specific, non-cardinal destination.
=====Etymology=====
The spell's formal name, **The Four-Point Spell**, is a direct reference to the four cardinal points of a [[compass]]: north, south, east, and west.
The incantation, `[[Point Me]]`, is notable for being in plain English rather than the Latin-based phrasing common to many spells in the wizarding world. It functions as a direct command to the [[wand]], instructing it to point in the correct direction.
=====Behind the Scenes=====
In the film adaptation of //Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire//, Harry uses the spell in the [[maze]]. When he casts it, his [[wand]] levitates slightly above his palm and spins rapidly before settling to point north (film). This spell also appears as a navigational aid in several *Harry Potter* video games (video game).