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Hard trig identities question

Prove that sec^(2)x - cosec^(2)x is equivalent to tan^(2)x-cot^(2)x.

I always end up with some really complicated identity and can never get te LHS to equal the RHS. Does anyone know a method for solving trig identities? I feel like mine always end up going on forever and never getting the right answer

Thanks in advance!

Reply 1

Notnek

Original post by theeetimdoherty

There are standard (formula book) identities that should make this question quite easy. Do you know what I'm referring to?

Or are you not allowed to use these identities?

Reply 2

username3973120

For this question, focus on only the LHS. I can send a photo of the solution if you want?

Reply 3

peterdxherty

Original post by Notnek

There are standard (formula book) identities that should make this question quite easy. Do you know what I'm referring to?

Or are you not allowed to use these identities?

ah yes, i forgot about those aha. Yeah it's pretty easy now, thanks!