Concept 3 of 3

Shortest distance

If after multiple moves, the final position is some a metres east and b metres north of the start, the shortest distance back is √(a² + b²).

Example

Final position is 3 m East and 4 m North of start. Shortest distance = √(9+16) = √25 = 5 m.

💡 Tip:Pythagoras applies because horizontal and vertical legs are at 90°.