How do I know wether to use the sine or cosine rule?

You use the cosine rule when you have been given the length of two sides and an inclusive angle (the angle in between those two lines) or if you have been given the length of three sides.You use the sine rule however if you've been given the length of two sides and a non-inclusive angle or if you've been given the size of two angles and one side.

DP
Answered by Daidria P. Maths tutor

8683 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A rectangular path has perimeter of 240m. If the rectangle is split lengthways, two paths of 160m are formed. Work out the lengths of the sides of the original path.


Solve the simultaneous equations, 2x-3y=14 and 3x+4y=4


There are 495 coins in a bottle. 1/3 of the coins are £1 coins. 124 of the coins are 50p coins. The rest of the coins are 20p coins. Work out the total value of the 495 coins


Simplify √(4x^8).


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning