Worked Example 1

Part of Exact Trig Values · Section 4 of 7

Study NotesUnit: Geometry & MeasuresGCSE

Calculate the exact value of sin 60° + cos 60°.

Solution

From the exact values table:

sin 60° = √3/2

cos 60° = 1/2

sin 60° + cos 60° = √3/2 + 1/2

= (√3 + 1)/2

Answer: (√3 + 1)/2

This study notes covers Worked Example 1 within Exact Trig Values for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Exact Trig Values in Geometry & Measures for GCSE Mathematics with 14 exam-style questions and 4 flashcards. This topic shows up very often in GCSE exams, so students should be able to explain it clearly, not just recognise the term. It is section 4 of 7 in this topic. Use this study notes to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Practice questions for Exact Trig Values

What is the exact value of sin 30°?

  • A. √3/2
  • B. 1/2
  • C. √2/2
  • D. 1
1 markfoundation

James says that sin 30° and cos 60° are equal. Is James correct? Explain your answer using exact values.

2 marksstandard

Quick recall flashcards

Cos Pattern
Cos is sin BACKWARDS. cos θ = sin(90°-θ). So cos 30° = sin 60°, etc.
Sin Pattern
sin 0°=0, sin 30°=1/2, sin 45°=√2/2, sin 60°=√3/2, sin 90°=1. Pattern: √n/2 for n=0,1,2,3,4

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