10 Skills to Practice the Pythagorean Theorem

The Pythagorean Theorem is a mathematical statement that states that the square of the length of the longest side of a right triangle is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides. It is an important concept that is used in many areas of mathematics and has been around for centuries. With its importance, it is important to become comfortable with this concept and the best way to do that is to practice. Here are 10 skills to practice the Pythagorean Theorem.

1. Identify a Right Triangle

Identify a Right Triangle

The most important skill to practice when learning the Pythagorean Theorem is understanding how to identify a right triangle. A right triangle has one 90-degree angle and two acute angles. Once you can identify a right triangle, you can move on to the next step, which is determining the sides of the triangle.

2. Determine the Length of the Sides

Determine the Length of the Sides

Once you are able to identify a right triangle, you will need to determine the length of each side. This can be done by measuring the triangle with a ruler or by using the Pythagorean Theorem. The Pythagorean Theorem states that the square of the length of the longest side of a right triangle is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides.

3. Use the Pythagorean Theorem to Find Missing Lengths

Use the Pythagorean Theorem to Find Missing Lengths

Once you know the lengths of two sides of a right triangle, you can use the Pythagorean Theorem to find the length of the third side. This can be done by plugging the known values into the equation and then solving for the unknown side. This is a useful skill to practice when working with right triangles.

4. Use the Pythagorean Theorem to Find Angles

Use the Pythagorean Theorem to Find Angles

The Pythagorean Theorem can also be used to find the angles of a right triangle. By knowing the lengths of two sides of the triangle, you can use the equation to find the measure of the remaining angle. This is a useful skill to practice when trying to determine the angles of a right triangle.

5. Solve Word Problems

Solve Word Problems

The Pythagorean Theorem can be used to solve a variety of word problems. These types of problems usually involve finding the length of one side of a right triangle when the other two sides are given. This is a great skill to practice when trying to become comfortable with the Pythagorean Theorem.



The Pythagorean Theorem is an important concept in mathematics and it is important to become comfortable with it. The best way to do this is to practice. Through practice, you can become comfortable with identifying a right triangle, determining the lengths of its sides, using the equation to find missing lengths, using it to find angles, and solving word problems. By practicing these skills, you can become an expert on the Pythagorean Theorem.