SOLUTION: How will you know when to use permutation,combination, or probability in a problem? I am so confused. Can you help me?

Question 1022329: How will you know when to use permutation,combination, or probability in a problem? I am so confused. Can you help me?

Answer by solver91311(24713) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!

You calculate probability when the problem asks you to determine a probability. Strong hints are when the problem contains words to the effect: "What is the probability...". Use permutations when counting a number of choices where the order matters. Use combinations when counting the number of choices where order doesn't matter. Example: A club wants to choose a three-person committee, so you would use combinations because the committee consisting of Bill, Sue, and Alice is exactly the same as Sue, Alice, and Bill. On the other hand, if the club wanted to elect an executive committee consisting of a President, Vice-President, and Secretary, then you would use permutations since Bill as President, Sue as Vice President, and Alice as Secretary is very different than Sue as President, Alice as Vice President, and Bill as Secretary.

John

My calculator said it, I believe it, that settles it

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