Probability

What is expected value?

What is expected value? Learn the core idea, common steps, and how to recognize this probability concept in homework problems.

Problem Statement

What is expected value?

Step-by-step solution

Problem Statement

What is expected value?

Step-by-Step Explanation

Expected value is the long-run average outcome of a random process.

  1. Identify what the question is asking. In Probability, this usually means naming the known quantities, the unknown quantity, and the concept that connects them.
  2. Write the relevant definition, rule, or relationship before substituting numbers or manipulating symbols.
  3. Work one step at a time and keep units, signs, and restrictions visible.
  4. Check whether the answer makes sense in the original context.

Key Formula

E(X)=xP(x)E(X)=\sum xP(x)

Final Answer

Expected value is the long-run average outcome of a random process. The reliable strategy is to start from the definition, apply the correct rule carefully, and then interpret the result in plain language.