People are only just discovering little-known use for common key after 64 years

Ever wondered what this particular key is actually used for? In recent years, social media has firmly established itself as the go-to destination for discovering all manner of fascinating things.

Recently, Aldi shoppers only just realised what the supermarket's name means after 64 years. Now, yet another revelation is leaving people astounded - a key used for DIY purposes that has sparked quite the debate online.

Whether you prefer tackling home improvements yourself or bringing in a professional, there is a special function for this key that may well have passed you by.

People have even claimed it took them over 60 years to grasp its true purpose, so do you have any idea what it is? On X, the hugely popular account Today Years Old, which commands a following of 1 million, shared a clip of the key in action.

The post posed the question: "How old were you when you discovered what this is for?" Since being uploaded, it has amassed 1.6 million views, alongside 7,000 likes and more than 600 retweets.

An accompanying video reveals this special key, known as a spade drill bit, is used in carpentry for drilling circular holes in wood, with those holes serving a rather important purpose.

They allow a pin to be inserted, effectively converting the key into a compass capable of drawing flawless circles.

This nifty DIY tool demonstrated just how remarkably useful the key can be, as someone produces what appears to be the most perfect circle imaginable using this clever feature.

Unsurprisingly, this came as a revelation to many, with countless comments revealing users were astounded by it. One person said: "Well, it was today. So that's how old I was." Another confessed: "About 15 seconds into this video."

And yet another chimed in: "To be honest, today only learnt." While someone else said it was when they were 64 years old.

The secret purpose of the carpentry tool key revealed

Utilising a key with a hole as a makeshift compass is an ingenious method for drawing the perfect circle. The hole functions as the centre point, while the pencil positioned at a fixed distance can act as your drawing edge.

Follow these straightforward steps to set it up:

1. Secure the centre point: Position the key flat on your material, insert a drawing pin, small nail or tack through the keyring hole to anchor the key firmly to the precise centre.

2. Measure your radius: Use a ruler and measure from the centre of the key's hole to the tip of the pencil. This will determine your circle's radius.

3. Lock the pencil distance: While holding the key securely in position, trace the arc around the centre pivot point using the pencil.