Probability and Random Variables: A Beginner's Guide - Softcover

Stirzaker, David

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521644453 ISBN 13: 9780521644457

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1999

Synopsis

This concise introduction to probability theory is written in an informal, tutorial style with concepts and techniques defined and developed as necessary. After an elementary discussion of chance, Stirzaker sets out the central and crucial rules and ideas of probability including independence and conditioning. Counting, combinatorics, and the ideas of probability distributions and densities follow. Later chapters present random variables and examine independence, conditioning, covariance, and functions of random variables, both discrete and continuous. The final chapter considers generating functions and applies this concept to practical problems including branching processes, random walks, and the central limit theorem. Examples, demonstrations, and exercises are used throughout to explore the ways in which probability is motivated by, and applied to, real life problems in science, medicine, gaming and other subjects of interest. Essential proofs of important results are included. Assuming minimal prior technical knowledge on the part of the reader, this book is suitable for students taking introductory courses in probability and will provide a solid foundation for more advanced courses in probability and statistics. It is also a valuable reference to those needing a working knowledge of probability theory and will appeal to anyone interested in this endlessly fascinating and entertaining subject.

About this title

Book Description

This concise introduction to probability theory is written in an informal tutorial style with concepts and techniques defined and developed as necessary. Examples, demonstrations, and exercises are used to explore ways in which probability is motivated by, and applied to, real life problems in science, medicine, gaming and other subjects of interest. It assumes minimal prior technical knowledge and is suitable for students taking introductory courses, those needing a working knowledge of probability theory and anyone interested in this endlessly fascinating and entertaining subject.

About the Author

David Stirzaker is Associate Professor in the Mathematical Institute at the University of Oxford and an Emeritus Research Fellow at St John's College, Oxford. His previous titles include Probability and Random Processes (with Geoffrey Grimmett, 2001) and Elementary Probability (Cambridge University Press, 2003).

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 0521644453
• ISBN 13: 9780521644457
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 382