Probability 101: A Guide to Conditional Probability

By Dr. Reginald P. Bottomsworth, renowned probability expert and mad scientist

What is Conditional Probability?

Conditional probability is like a game of chance, but with more math.

Let's consider a simple example: flipping a coin. The probability of getting heads is 50%, but what if we add a condition? Like, what if we only care about getting heads if the other coin lands on tails?

That's right, folks. It's like a probability party in here!

Example Time!

Conditional Probability Experiment: Coin Flip

Flip a coin, and if it lands on tails, we get to flip again. But only if it lands on heads the second time, we win the game!

Flip Coin (Again)

Practice Problems!

Practice Problem 1: Card Draw

What is the probability of drawing a red card from a standard deck if we only consider the case where we've already drawn a black card?

Card Draw: Red Card Only

Practice Problem 2: Dice Roll

What is the probability of rolling a 6 on a single die if we only care about the case where we've rolled a 4 or 5 first?

Dice Roll: Double Trouble