Trigonometry for SSC: All Formulas & Shortcuts in One Place

Trigonometry carries 5-7 questions in SSC CGL Tier 1 and is often avoided by students. But with the right formulas, it becomes easy marks.

Essential Identities

sin²θ + cos²θ = 1. 1 + tan²θ = sec²θ. 1 + cot²θ = cosec²θ. These three identities solve 60% of all trigonometry questions.

Value Table (Must Memorize)

sin 0°=0, sin 30°=1/2, sin 45°=1/√2, sin 60°=√3/2, sin 90°=1. Remember: sin values increase 0° to 90°, cos values decrease. tan 45°=1 is the pivot point.

Heights & Distances

Key concept: Angle of elevation (looking up) and angle of depression (looking down). Most problems involve two triangles sharing a common side (height of building/tower). Draw the diagram clearly, mark all angles, and apply tan for most problems.

Shortcut: Substitution Method

When asked "find the value of expression," try substituting θ = 45° or θ = 30°. If options have specific values (not in terms of θ), substitution gives the answer instantly.