How Do You Solve Basic Probability Problems Involving Die Rolls?
Article 2 in a series of stand-alone articles on basic probability. A common topic in introductory probability is solving problems involving die rolls. This article shows you the steps for solving the most common types of questions on this subject. For all problems of this type, there are some important points that apply, which are expanded upon in the article linked in the Reference section. First of all, the problem will probably refer to a “fair” die. This just means that no tricks are involved. It’s not weighted. We also assume a normal situation. Don’t question whether or not the die could come to rest on a corner or up against the wall, or anything like that. It will land on one of the six sides fairly. The problems typically refer to a standard six-sided die, unless you are told otherwise. Note that some textbooks may refer to a die as a “standard number cube,” so that the publisher will not be accused of promoting gambling among children. Here is a typical question: “A fair die
