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BUS 232

Which count model fits your question?

Start with a probability table. Then learn when to use binomial, Poisson and hypergeometric distributions, turn words into probability ranges, and check each answer in Excel.

Random variables and tables · Step 1 of 17

Give an uncertain outcome a number

VariablePossible valuesType
Customers0, 1, 2, 3, …Discrete
Count: separate possible valuesMeasure: values along a continuous scale
A random variable, X, is a number determined by a random outcome. A discrete variable has separate, countable possible values, usually whole-number counts. A continuous variable measures something and can take any value in an interval.
Try it: Switch from counting customers to measuring a wait. Can a fractional value make sense?
What are we recording?
Complaints and phone rings are counts. Thickness, temperature and height are measurements. Discrete values need not always be integers: listed cash prizes can include cents.
Check yourself
Which is discrete?

Exam coming up and the probability models still look alike?

Bring your problem sets. We work through them together until every type feels routine.

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