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1 Dec 2025

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SOHCAHTOA Explained: Easy Trigonometry for GCSE Maths

SOHCAHTOA is your secret weapon for solving right-angled triangles - it's a simple memory trick that unlocks the... Show more

0
HYP
OPP
U
ADJ
x cm
S=
Q1) Find the value of xc giving your answer to 1 decimal place.
ADJ
1. Label
(25
COS= ADS
HYP
THE SIDE
OPPOSITE
THE

SOHCAHTOA Your Triangle-Solving Toolkit

SOHCAHTOA breaks down into three essential ratios that connect angles to sides in right-angled triangles. Sine = Opposite/Hypotenuse, Cosine = Adjacent/Hypotenuse, and Tangent = Opposite/Adjacent - these are the building blocks you'll use every time.

Before diving into calculations, you need to identify the three sides correctly. The hypotenuse is always the longest side (opposite the right angle), the opposite side sits across from your angle of interest, and the adjacent side sits next to your angle.

The five-step method makes solving triangles systematic and foolproof. Label your sides (OPP, ADJ, HYP), choose the right formula based on what you know and what you're finding, substitute your values, rearrange if needed, then calculate. Following this order prevents mistakes and builds your confidence.

Top Tip When finding missing sides, multiply or divide to rearrange your equation. When the unknown is on top of the fraction, multiply both sides by the bottom number!

For missing angles, you'll use the inverse functions (sinโปยน, cosโปยน, tanโปยน) on your calculator. If you know two sides, you can always find an angle - just choose the right ratio, substitute your values, then hit that inverse button to get your answer.

We thought youโ€™d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ€“ all at your fingertips.

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Transform this note into: โœ“ 50+ Practice Questions โœ“ Interactive Flashcards โœ“ Full Mock Exam โœ“ Essay Outlines

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Students love us โ€” and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because itโ€™s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

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The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

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Greenlight Bonnie

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very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

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I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโ€™t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโ€™m sure you too will see developments.

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THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

Elisha

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This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

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Basil

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This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

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iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

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very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโ€™t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโ€™m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

ย 

Maths

โ€ข

460

โ€ข

1 Dec 2025

โ€ข

1 page

SOHCAHTOA Explained: Easy Trigonometry for GCSE Maths

SOHCAHTOA is your secret weapon for solving right-angled triangles - it's a simple memory trick that unlocks the power of trigonometry. Once you master this handy acronym, you'll be able to find missing sides and angles in any right-angled triangle... Show more

0
HYP
OPP
U
ADJ
x cm
S=
Q1) Find the value of xc giving your answer to 1 decimal place.
ADJ
1. Label
(25
COS= ADS
HYP
THE SIDE
OPPOSITE
THE

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SOHCAHTOA: Your Triangle-Solving Toolkit

SOHCAHTOA breaks down into three essential ratios that connect angles to sides in right-angled triangles. Sine = Opposite/Hypotenuse, Cosine = Adjacent/Hypotenuse, and Tangent = Opposite/Adjacent - these are the building blocks you'll use every time.

Before diving into calculations, you need to identify the three sides correctly. The hypotenuse is always the longest side (opposite the right angle), the opposite side sits across from your angle of interest, and the adjacent side sits next to your angle.

The five-step method makes solving triangles systematic and foolproof. Label your sides (OPP, ADJ, HYP), choose the right formula based on what you know and what you're finding, substitute your values, rearrange if needed, then calculate. Following this order prevents mistakes and builds your confidence.

Top Tip: When finding missing sides, multiply or divide to rearrange your equation. When the unknown is on top of the fraction, multiply both sides by the bottom number!

For missing angles, you'll use the inverse functions (sinโปยน, cosโปยน, tanโปยน) on your calculator. If you know two sides, you can always find an angle - just choose the right ratio, substitute your values, then hit that inverse button to get your answer.

We thought youโ€™d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ€“ all at your fingertips.

9

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: โœ“ 50+ Practice Questions โœ“ Interactive Flashcards โœ“ Full Mock Exam โœ“ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Pythagorean Theorem Explained

Comprehensive GCSE Maths resource on the Pythagorean Theorem. Learn the formula, step-by-step problem-solving techniques, and practice with example questions. Ideal for mastering right triangle calculations and understanding side lengths.

MathsMaths
9

Trigonometry Essentials

Explore essential trigonometry concepts including the Law of Sines, Law of Cosines, and Pythagorean Theorem. This summary covers key formulas for right and non-right angle triangles, helping you determine missing sides and angles effectively. Ideal for exam preparation and quick revision.

MathsMaths
8

Trigonometry Basics: SOHCAHTOA

Explore the fundamentals of trigonometry with a focus on SOHCAHTOA. This study resource covers how to calculate missing angles in right-angled triangles using sine, cosine, and tangent ratios. Ideal for students looking to master trigonometric concepts and solve practical problems.

MathsMaths
9

Trigonometric Ratios Explained

Explore the fundamentals of trigonometry with a focus on right triangles. This study resource covers key concepts such as opposite and adjacent sides, trigonometric ratios, and practical examples for calculating angles and side lengths. Ideal for GCSE Maths students seeking to master trigonometric problems.

MathsMaths
9

Trigonometric Ratios Explained

Explore essential trigonometric concepts including hypotenuse, opposite, and adjacent sides, along with exact values for sine, cosine, and tangent at key angles (0ยฐ, 30ยฐ, 45ยฐ, 60ยฐ, 90ยฐ). This summary provides a clear understanding of trigonometric ratios and their applications.

MathsMaths
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Fundamentals of Trigonometry

Explore the essential concepts of trigonometry, focusing on sine, cosine, and tangent functions in right-angled triangles. This summary covers the definitions of hypotenuse, opposite, and adjacent sides, along with practical applications for calculating unknown sides using trigonometric ratios. Ideal for students seeking a clear understanding of trigonometric principles.

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Most popular content: Trigonometric Ratios

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Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us โ€” and so will you.

4.9/5

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Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because itโ€™s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโ€™t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโ€™m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because itโ€™s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโ€™t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโ€™m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user