Final answer:
Azimuthal map projections retain accurate direction, unlike cylindrical and conic projections, which can distort direction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The class of map projection that retains accurate direction is azimuthal. Specifically, azimuthal projections are designed to maintain accurate directions from a central point to any other point on the map. This type of projection can represent direction accurately, unlike cylindrical projections like the Mercator projection, which distorts direction (except along the equator), or conic projections, which are used mainly for midlatitude regions where straight meridians converge on one or two standard parallels.