How do I determine holding pattern entry and direction in this example? I need help with this question for the IFR written test: &quot;A pilot receives this ATC clearance: '...CLEARED TO THE XYZ VORTAC. HOLD NORTH ON THE THREE SIX ZERO RADIAL, LEFT TURNS...' What is the recommended procedure to enter the holding pattern?&quot;
Why is the answer on the left the correct visualization? It doesn't say if I should hold left or right of the radial. Both answers are left turns. Both answers are holding north. What am I missing?


Thank you all for your help. My 150 arrow was wrong and I was confusing myself. Also, it's helpful to know that the inbound leg terminates at the fix (which entirely makes sense now). So, my new answer is direct entry and here is my new visualization:
Neither of the two representations show holding North if the arrow depicted in the corner is truly pointing towards 150°. If this is the case, North is at the bottom of the page and South is at the top. Therefore, both representations are showing holding South of the fix.
If the dot depicted is the fix, the representation on the left is not a holding pattern. Holding patterns have their inbound leg terminating at the fix. Your turn towards the outbound leg would then begin when crossing the fix on the outbound leg.
Furthermore, your HSI is showing that you are on the 150°  To-Radial of the fix, on a 155° Heading, and a 16.5 DME. This would put your aircraft inbound, 16.5 Nautical Miles North of the fix, roughly on the 330° From-Radial (or just Radial). You should intercept the inbound leg 360° Radial of the fix well before crossing it. Then effect a Direct Entry, Performing your 5Ts Once you hit the fix with wings level.
You could, however, continue direct to the fix, inbound on the 330° Radial, and still perform a Direct Entry. I just, personally, think it’s easier to intercept the inbound (360° Radial) leg first.
Research AIM 5-3-8 for further details.