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Probability is the chance of something happening, measured from 0 to 1. A probability of 0 means impossible, and 1 means certain. To find it, divide favourable outcomes by total outcomes. For example, with a fair six-sided die, the chance of rolling a 3 is 1/6.
Probability is the mathematics of uncertainty, providing a structured way to measure how likely events are to occur. On the GMAT, questions on probability build from the basic ratio of favourable outcomes to total outcomes and often extend into layered cases with multiple conditions. This article and video explain the fundamentals through clear examples, showing how sample spaces are identified and favourable cases defined. Once this discipline is mastered, even seemingly complex problems reduce to manageable steps. Building such clarity should be an integral part of every GMAT prep, where strengthening logic and systematic reasoning is central. Consistent practice through realistic GMAT mocks further ensures that probability becomes a tool of confidence under exam conditions.
Probability quantifies how likely it is that an event will occur. The fundamental definition is:
Probability of an event (E) = n(E) / n(S)
Here, n(E) represents the number of favourable outcomes, and n(S) represents the total number of possible outcomes, also called the sample space.
Consider the question: What is the probability of drawing an ace from a well-shuffled pack of 52 cards?
This simple case demonstrates the structure that underlies all probability questions. Whether the problem involves dice, cards, or abstract scenarios, the principle remains the same: favourable outcomes divided by total outcomes.
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Probability of getting heads = 1/2.
Probability of picking Sunday out of 7 days = 1/7.
Bag has 10 marbles, 3 are blue. Probability of picking blue = 3/10.
The probability of rolling an even number (2, 4, or 6) = 3/6 = 1/2.
The probability of rolling a number greater than 4 (5 or 6) on a die = 2/6 = 1/3.
Probability of randomly picking March out of 12 months = 1/12.
Basket has 5 balls, 1 black. Probability of black = 1/5.
Probability of randomly selecting “P” from 26 letters = 1/26.
The probability of drawing a heart from a standard deck = 13/52 = 1/4.
The probability of drawing a red card from a standard 52-card deck = 26/52 = 1/2.
Class has 20 students, 5 are left-handed. Probability of picking a left-handed student = 5/20 = 1/4.
Probability holds significance on the GMAT not only because it appears directly in quantitative questions but also because it develops a precise style of reasoning. The discipline of carefully defining the sample space and then isolating favourable outcomes trains the mind to think in structured, logical steps. This habit extends far beyond probability problems, improving performance across data analysis, combinatorics, and logical puzzles. Students who build strength in probability also develop resilience in approaching unfamiliar question types, where clarity matters more than formula memorization. Consistently practicing probability in a simulated GMAT mock environment ensures that the skill is tested under real timing conditions, sharpening both speed and accuracy in the overall exam.
Probability reminds us that uncertainty is not chaos, but something measurable and manageable when approached with clarity. On the GMAT, probability trains you to stay calm in the face of unknowns, to break down overwhelming possibilities into simple, structured steps. The MBA admission process carries the same lesson. You cannot control every outcome, but you can maximize favourable chances through preparation, reflection, and thoughtful choices. Life itself is filled with uncertain events, where no guarantee exists, yet reasoned effort and disciplined consistency often tip the balance. Embracing probability means learning to accept what lies beyond your influence, while giving your best to the factors you can shape. Whether in solving test questions, crafting an application, or navigating unexpected turns in life, probability teaches us to focus on structure, clarity, and effort, trusting that well-measured steps steadily improve the odds of success.
