ABSTRACT
Probability is a foundational concept in biostatistics; much of the material covered in the subsequent chapters of this book are based on probability theory and discussed in a probabilistic framework. Introductory probability topics and properties are discussed in the chapter, including sample spaces, Venn diagrams, conditional probability, probability of events, the union of events, the intersection of events, and complements of events. In addition, the chapter includes explanations of important terms related to events, such as independence, mutually exclusive, and mutually exhaustive, as well as the concept of being mutually exclusive and exhaustive. Also, the chapter covers the total probability rule and laws of probability (multiplication, addition, generalized multiplication). We include a brief discussion of probability in an epidemiologic framework (relative risk). Several examples and practice exercises are provided for readers to work through basic probability questions in a public health context. This chapter provides the reader with a clear understanding of basic probability concepts, rules, laws, and formulas needed to comprehend the material in subsequent chapters.
