The oxidation state of N in \(HNO_2\) can be determined using the following steps:

1. Assign the oxidation state of hydrogen as +1.

2. Assign the oxidation state of oxygen as -2.

3. Let the oxidation state of N be \(x\).

4. Set up the equation: +1 + x + 2(-2) = 0.

5. Solve for x: +1 + x - 4 = 0, x = +3.

Therefore, the oxidation state of N in \(HNO_2\) is +3.