Probability

Homework.

From,
Nice coder

Preparation for midterm. Homework isn't graded and even if it was, SO WHAT?

I'm asking for help not for solution anyway.

Well, what's the probability that he wins with the first draw? Now, what's the probability that, if he didnt win in the first draw, he wins in the second? Now . . .

5/1000*5/999*5/998*5/997*5/996?

I have no idea really. That's why I'm asking.

Probability is all about thinking into the problem to see what you're really being asked. In order to win exactly one prize, out of 10 drawings he needs to win 1, but also lose 9. There's one more aspect of this problem you need to figure out before you can actually sit down and compute it (it will be a bit tedious) but you've got a good start I believe. And if you're savvy, you can write out the equation but actually write a computer program to do the calculations for you [wink]

Can you show me how to solve it and explain the reasoning behind it? I UNDERSTAND what you are saying but at the same time it doesn't give me any ideas how to proceed. I have formulas in the book and still I can't decide what to use and how to use it. I'm a complete novice to probabilities (I'm sure it's obvious enough).

The book I'm learning from has no explanations only formulas with brief descriptions. It's more like a reference than a learning aid.

Thanks!

That was me, sorry.