Jeffrey Meng

Calculus-Base Probability and Statistics

Test on Probability and Counting
During this unit, the only concept I had difficulty becoming proficient in was the

usage of Permutations and Combinations. I knew that Permutations were used

when order mattered, and Combinations when ordered did not matter. However, I

sometimes became confused midway in problem. For example, question 4 was one

that asked for proficiency in this area and I had failed to deliver. For part B, my first

mistake was beginning with a permutation instead of a combination. The question

merely asked for the probability of receiving two spades and three diamonds; it did

not ask for the order. I became confused on how to proceed and wrote

4 P 2∗4 P3 4 C 2 ∗4 C 3

52 P 5 instead of 52 C 5 .

First and foremost, I obviously had confused suits and card values. However, the

larger problem is that I tried to fit a permutation into a combination. I remember

intrinsically realizing that it was a combination, however did not have solid enough

an understanding to comfortably correct my answer and ended up in the worst

position possible, halfway between using a permutation and a combination. For the

test, I had memorized their usage, and that was my greatest mistake. I should have

spent more time to understand their usage and the math behind the formula.

Apart from my foolish errors with counting with fingers, showing more work, and

lack of understanding about poker cards, this was my only real misconception.