Trigonometry might sound scary, but it's actually just a clever... Show more
Maths115 views·Updated May 31, 2026·1 pageUnderstanding the Basics of Trigonometry for Edexcel Higher Maths GCSE
Charlotte@charlotte26
1
of 1
Trigonometry Basics
Trigonometry is your secret weapon for solving right-angled triangle problems. The magic word you need to remember is SOHCAHTOA - it's not as complicated as it looks, promise!
First, let's sort out the sides of your triangle. The hypotenuse is always the longest side, sitting opposite the right angle. The opposite side is directly across from the angle you're working with. The adjacent side is the one next to your angle (but not the hypotenuse).
Now for the main event - SOHCAHTOA breaks down into three simple ratios:
- SOH: Sine = Opposite ÷ Hypotenuse
- CAH: Cosine = Adjacent ÷ Hypotenuse
- TOA: Tangent = Opposite ÷ Adjacent
Quick Tip: Remember SOHCAHTOA by thinking "Some Old Hippie Caught Another Hippie Tripping On Acid" - weird but it works!
When you need to find an angle instead of a side, use the inverse functions: sin⁻¹, cos⁻¹, or tan⁻¹. Just press shift and then your chosen trig button on your calculator. Easy!
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Maths115 views·Updated May 31, 2026·1 pageUnderstanding the Basics of Trigonometry for Edexcel Higher Maths GCSE
Charlotte@charlotte26
Trigonometry might sound scary, but it's actually just a clever way to find missing sides and angles in right-angled triangles. Once you've mastered SOHCAHTOA, you'll be solving triangle problems like a pro!
1
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Trigonometry Basics
Trigonometry is your secret weapon for solving right-angled triangle problems. The magic word you need to remember is SOHCAHTOA - it's not as complicated as it looks, promise!
First, let's sort out the sides of your triangle. The hypotenuse is always the longest side, sitting opposite the right angle. The opposite side is directly across from the angle you're working with. The adjacent side is the one next to your angle (but not the hypotenuse).
Now for the main event - SOHCAHTOA breaks down into three simple ratios:
- SOH: Sine = Opposite ÷ Hypotenuse
- CAH: Cosine = Adjacent ÷ Hypotenuse
- TOA: Tangent = Opposite ÷ Adjacent
Quick Tip: Remember SOHCAHTOA by thinking "Some Old Hippie Caught Another Hippie Tripping On Acid" - weird but it works!
When you need to find an angle instead of a side, use the inverse functions: sin⁻¹, cos⁻¹, or tan⁻¹. Just press shift and then your chosen trig button on your calculator. Easy!
We thought you’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?
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