(A) When the point is nearer the centre
(i) Let AB be the line and P be the point.
(ii) With centre P and any convenient radius draw an arc cutting AB at C and D.
(iii) Take any radius greater than half the length of CD in compass, and with centres C and D draw the arcs intersecting each other at E.
(iv) Draw a line connecting P and E, this line cuts the line AB at Q.
(v) Then PQ is the required perpendicular to AB line.
(B) When the point is nearer to the end of line
(i) Let AB be the line and P be the point.
(ii) With centre A and radius equal to AP, draw an arc cutting AB at C.
(iii) with centre C and radius equal to CP, draw an arc cutting previously drawn arc at D.
(iv) Draw a line joining P and D and intersecting AB at Q.
(v) then PQ is the required perpendicular.