Trigonometry Study Guide
1. Introduction and Learning Objectives
This guide covers key concepts in trigonometry, including trigonometric ratios, graphs of
sine, cosine, and tangent, exact values, equations, and identities. It is structured to provide a
clear understanding of the material through explanations and examples.
2. Trigonometric Ratios
Trigonometric ratios relate the angles of a right-angled triangle to the ratios of its sides. The
three primary ratios are:
• sin(θ) = Opposite / Hypotenuse
• cos(θ) = Adjacent / Hypotenuse
• tan(θ) = Opposite / Adjacent
Mnemonic: SOH-CAH-TOA
3. Extending Ratios to All Angles
To define sine, cosine, and tangent for angles greater than 90°, consider a point (x, y) on a
circle with radius r. The ratios become:
• sin(θ) = y / r
• cos(θ) = x / r
• tan(θ) = y / x
Signs of the ratios depend on the quadrant.
4. CAST Rule
The CAST diagram helps remember where trigonometric functions are positive:
• Quadrant I: All (A)
• Quadrant II: Sine (S)
• Quadrant III: Tangent (T)
• Quadrant IV: Cosine (C)
5. Graphs of Trigonometric Functions
• sin(θ): Period = 360°, Amplitude = 1, passes through origin
• cos(θ): Period = 360°, Amplitude = 1, starts at (0,1)
• tan(θ): Period = 180°, has vertical asymptotes at θ = ±90°, ±270°, ...
6. Exact Trigonometric Values
Using special triangles (30°-60°-90° and 45°-45°-90°), we derive exact values:
• sin(30°) = 1/2, cos(30°) = √3/2, tan(30°) = 1/√3
• sin(45°) = 1/√2, cos(45°) = 1/√2, tan(45°) = 1
• sin(60°) = √3/2, cos(60°) = 1/2, tan(60°) = √3
7. Solving Trigonometric Equations
Equations such as sin(θ) = k can have multiple solutions due to the periodic nature of
trigonometric functions. Use the principal value from a calculator and consider all possible
angles in the required range.
8. Trigonometric Identities
• sin²θ + cos²θ ≡ 1
• tan(θ) ≡ sin(θ)/cos(θ)
Identities are useful for simplifying expressions and solving equations.
9. Examination-Style Questions
Practice solving equations involving trigonometric identities, compound angles (e.g.,
sin(2θ)), and using graphs or unit circle concepts.