Deductive geometry uses known facts and logical steps to prove new geometric results. A valid proof must justify each statement with a theorem, definition, or given condition.

Reasoning language

Core angle facts

Triangle facts

Polygon facts

Sum of interior angles of \(n\)-gon:

\[ (n-2)\times180^\circ. \]

Sum of exterior angles (one per vertex, same direction) is always \(360^\circ\).

Proof structure

  1. Write what is given and what must be shown.
  2. Mark known equal angles/lengths on diagram.
  3. Use relevant theorems in short logical chain.
  4. End with clear conclusion sentence.

Example proof pattern

If \(AB\parallel CD\) and line \(AD\) intersects them, prove one pair of alternate interior angles is equal.

Since \(AB\parallel CD\), alternate interior angles are equal (parallel-line theorem). Therefore required pair is equal.

Common proof errors

Exam strategy