Trigonometry may seem complex, but Jamb generally poses very simple questions of this subject. Most questions are based on Basic trigonometric ratios And how they are used to solve real problems involving angles, height and distances.
If you understand the basic concepts and how to use them in triangles at right angles, you will find that trigonometry is one of the easiest parts of the examination.
Let’s decompose it in a way that makes sense and prepares you to mark complete notes in this section.
Read also: how to prepare for mathematics JAM 2025 and easily pass
What Jamb is really tested in trigonometry
You will not be asked to prove identities or draw complicated graphics. Jam focuses mainly on:
- Right angle triangles
- The three main trigonometric ratios
- Simple calculations involving the height and the distances
- Elevation angle and depression angle
Everything comes back to Know how to apply the correct report to the right triangle.
Understand trigonometric ratios
The three key reports are:
- SINUS (sin) = Opposite / hypotenuse
- Cosinus (cos) = Adjacent / hypotenuse
- Tangent (tanning) = Opposite / adjacent
These are used when they treat Right angle triangles.
To remember which to use, think of the shortcut “Soh cah toa”::
- SIne = OPposite / Hypotenuse
- COsin = ADjacet / Hypotenuse
- TAngent = OPposite / Adjacent
Once you know two sides or one side and an angle, you can always find the missing value.
Read also: Jam Syllabus for Mathematics 2025/2026 PDF Download
What to do when you see a question of trig
First, check if the triangle involved is a right angle. If so, label the sides:
- The side opposite to the right angle is the hypotenuse
- The side next to the given angle (but not the hypotenuse) is the adjacent
- The side facing the angle is the opposite
Then choose the right report according to what gives you and what you are looking for.
Example:
In a triangle at right angles, the angle is 30 ° and the hypotenuse is 10 cm. Find the opposite side.
You are looking for the opposite and you have the hypotenuse. So use: sin 30 ° = opposite / hypotenuse
Substitute: 0.5 = opposite / 10 → Opposed = 0.5 × 10 = 5 cm
It’s your answer.
Read also: Jam on concentration for mathematics 2025/2026
Elevation and depression questions
These types of questions simply imply research or drop from a point. They are always resolved using the same SIN, COS or Tan reports – you just need to draw a simple right angle triangle depending on the information provided.
Always draw a diagram to avoid confusion.
Last words
Trigonometry questions in Jamb 2025 will not be too difficult if you train. Focus on identifying the sides of the triangle, what you resolve and the use.
Start with simple examples. To use past questions To see common styles. Over time, you will start to solve these questions in a few seconds and collect easy marks.