In trigonometry some values of sin, cos and tan are “nice”
For example sin 30° = ½, tan 45° = 1
We can find those associated with the angles 30°, 45° and 60° using SOHCAHTOA on isosceles and equilateral triangles
sin, cos and tan values for 30°, 45° and 60° should be recalled easily
Memorise either the actual values or how to work them out from the triangle
sin, cos and tan for 0°, 90°, 180° should also be very familiar
They can be recalled using the relevant trigonometric graph (see Graphs of Trigonometric Functions)
Exact values and radians
All of the above applies to radians as well as degrees
Here is a table of all exact values including radians (see Radian Measure)
How do I find exact values of other angles?
Exact sin, cos and tan values of multiples of 30°, 45°, 60° can also be found
This is a combination of recalling the basic values and using the graph
Exam Tip
Draw the triangles for sin, cos and tan of 30°, 45° and 60° on the exam paper so that you can then use them as many times as you need throughout the paper.