How is the Pythagorean theorem used in everyday life?

Daily life makes use of the Pythagorean theorem in various ways, such as determining the viewing size of a television, which is sometimes a factor used in purchasing decisions. Given the length and height of the screen, the diagonal viewing area can be determined with the theorem.

Repairing a window on a house can also make use of the Pythagorean theorem. A ladder may need to be used to reach the window, but bushes or obstructions may force setting it at a certain distance from the house. The Pythagorean theorem helps determine how tall the ladder must be to reach the window successfully.