5.1 Introduction to Probability

So far we’ve been analyzing our datasets through description and summarization. However, it can also be very useful to use existing data to predict some information about the future. This idea of inferential statistics depends heavily on an understanding of probability.

Intro to Probability

Let’s start thinking about probability by looking at some classic examples, such as rolling dice and flipping coins.

⊕ random, sample space, event
⊕ experimental vs theoretical probability
⊕ law of large numbers

Working with Probabilities

Once we’ve established how to work with probabilities of single events, how can we start looking at combinations of events?

⊕ contingency tables
⊕ intersection, union of events
⊕ conditional probability, independence
⊕ writing code for probability simulations