Solving Trig Identities 

Proving an identity is very different in concept from solving an equation. Though you'll use many of the same techniques, they are not the same, and the differences are what can cause you problems.

Always start off with the bigger or harder side of the identities.An "identity" is an equation or statement that is always true, no matter what. For instance, sin(x) = 1/csc(x) is an identity. To "prove" an identity, you have to use logical steps to show that one side of the equation can be transformed into the other side of the equation. You do not plug values into the identity to "prove" anything. Identities such as: sin2q+cos2q=1 

tan2 q +1 = sec2 q 

1+cot2q =csc2q

are needed to use to solve the identities 

 

Math Joke of the week

Q: Why is beer never served at a math party?
A: Because you can't drink and derive.