Overview
On this page, we discuss the law of total probability.
Basic learning objectives
These are the tasks you should be able to perform with reasonable fluency when you arrive at your next class meeting. Important new vocabulary words are indicated in italics.
- Use the law of total probability to do probability calculations by partitioning a sample space into two disjoint subsets.
Advanced learning objectives
In addition to mastering the basic objectives, here are the tasks you should be able to perform after class, with practice:
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Use the law of total probability to do more general probability calculations by partitioning a sample space into any number of disjoint subsets.
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Use tree diagrams to present calculations involving the law of total probability.
To prepare for class
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Watch this video introducing the Law of Total Probability:
After class
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Watch this video (by jbstatistics) explaining the general case of the Law of Total Probability and how to use tree diagrams:
