The Labels (CRUCIAL!)

Part of Trigonometry (SOH CAH TOA) · Section 2 of 7

Key FactsUnit: Geometry & MeasuresGCSE

This key facts covers The Labels (CRUCIAL!) within Trigonometry (SOH CAH TOA) for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Trigonometry (SOH CAH TOA) in Geometry & Measures for GCSE Mathematics with 19 exam-style questions and 7 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 2 of 7 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

The Labels (CRUCIAL!)

First, label your triangle from the angle you're working with:

  • Opposite (O) - the side OPPOSITE to your angle
  • Adjacent (A) - the side NEXT TO your angle (not the hypotenuse)
  • Hypotenuse (H) - the LONGEST side (always opposite the right angle)

Practice questions for Trigonometry (SOH CAH TOA)

Which trigonometric ratio connects the opposite side and the hypotenuse in a right-angled triangle?

  • A. tan θ = opposite / adjacent
  • B. cos θ = opposite / hypotenuse
  • C. sin θ = opposite / hypotenuse
  • D. sin θ = adjacent / hypotenuse
1 markfoundation

For the triangle shown, a student chooses to use sin to find the missing side. Explain why they chose sin rather than one of the other trigonometric ratios.

2 marksstandard

Quick recall flashcards

SOH CAH TOA
sin = Opp/Hyp, cos = Adj/Hyp, tan = Opp/Adj
SOH CAH TOA
Sin = O/H, Cos = A/H, Tan = O/A. Pick based on which two sides you have or need.

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