Basic Probability

MathematicsAQAEdexcelGCSEUnit: Probability
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The basics

Probability in Daily Life

Probability in Daily Life

When you flip a coin, what are the chances it lands on heads? When you roll a die, what's the likelihood of getting a 6? These everyday situations involve probability - the mathematical way of measuring uncertainty and chance.

From weather forecasts to sports betting, probability helps us make sense of uncertain events and make informed decisions.

What is probability?: A measure of how likely an event is to occur, expressed as a number between 0 and 1
Key terms

Mathematics glossary

What is probability?
A measure of how likely an event is to occur, expressed as a number between 0 and 1
Exam tip

Earn the mark scheme marks

Exam Tips

  • Always simplify fractions - write 1/2 instead of 3/6
  • Check your answer makes sense - probability cannot be negative or greater than 1
  • Read the question carefully - "at least one" is different from "exactly one"
  • Use clear notation - write P(A) for "probability of event A"
  • Show your working - write the fraction before converting to decimal
  • Be careful with units - some questions want decimals, others want percentages or fractions

Now try it yourself

Quiz · Question 1 of 13

Which value represents an impossible event on a probability scale?

Tap an answer to check it

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