If a drill is not perpendicular to the workpiece, what is the likely result?

• A. Holes will be perfectly circular
• B. The drill will automatically correct alignment
• C. Holes may be drilled off-center or misaligned
• D. Holes may be larger than intended

Answer: (C)

When the drill isn’t perpendicular to the workpiece, it enters at an angle, and sideways cutting forces push the bit off its intended path. That means the hole’s axis won’t line up with where you planned, so the hole can be off-center or misaligned as you drill deeper. The drill doesn’t automatically correct for that tilt, and you won’t end up with a perfectly centered, true hole. To prevent this, clamp the work securely, use a drill press or guide to keep the bit square, and verify perpendicularity with a square or center marks before drilling.