Locate the Big Dipper. Begin by identifying the Big Dipper, which is one of the most recognizable constellations in the northern sky.
Look for a formation of seven bright stars that comprise the “dipper” shape: Four stars form the "bowl" and three form the "handle."
Follow the pointers. Focus on the two stars forming the outer edge of the Big Dipper's bowl. These are Dubhe and Merak, often referred to as the "pointer stars" because they guide you to Polaris.
Reach polaris. Extend the imaginary line from the pointers approximately five times the distance between Dubhe and Merak. The bright star along this line is Polaris.
It should be relatively isolated from other bright stars in its vicinity.
Confirming polaris. Polaris is at the tip of the handle of the Little Dipper (Ursa Minor).
Confirming it, you might see a fainter set of stars forming a smaller dipper shape, with Polaris being notably brighter.
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