Skip to Main Content
This is a free sample lesson. Sign up for Magoosh to get access to over 200 video lessons.

Intro to Probability

Can't listen to audio right now? Turn on captions.
Summary
The essence of probability is explored, emphasizing its definition as a ratio, the significance of randomness, and basic strategies for solving probability problems.
  • Probability is fundamentally a ratio or fraction, representing the number of successes over the total number of outcomes, and must fall between 0 and 1.
  • A probability of 0 signifies impossibility, while a probability of 1 indicates certainty, with most real-world probabilities lying somewhere in between.
  • The concept of randomness in mathematics implies that while individual events are unpredictable, the overall pattern of events is predictable.
  • Making a list of all possible outcomes is an elementary strategy for solving simple probability problems, though more complex strategies are necessary for the GRE.
  • Understanding and calculating probability involves recognizing patterns and applying mathematical rules to predict the likelihood of events.
Chapters
00:05
Introduction to Probability
00:20
Understanding Probability as a Ratio
03:33
The Concept of Randomness
02:04
Elementary Strategy: Making a List

Next Lesson

Probability