Trigonometry becomes much easier when students follow a consistent routine. The key is to identify the triangle, label the sides and choose the correct relationship.
Start with right-angled triangles
Students should be confident with sine, cosine and tangent before moving to more advanced trigonometry. SOHCAHTOA is useful, but only if the sides are labelled correctly.
Check calculator mode
For GCSE and IGCSE, calculators usually need to be in degrees. A wrong mode can make every answer wrong.
Move on to sine and cosine rules
Higher tier students may need the sine rule, cosine rule and area of a triangle. These work best when diagrams are clear.
Practise exam wording
Trigonometry questions often appear in bearings, 3D shapes and problem-solving contexts. Students need to practise recognising when trig is needed.
