so what I don't get is why we have to learn probability; it's not like there's an everyday use for it, and not everybody is going to be a Weatherman/girl.
Did you know that the word in your name is spelled Awesome?
You can make that argument about almost everything you study in school. We do not have a crystal ball showing exactly what everyone needs to know for the next 60 years or so.
Read this for some ideas about the uses of probability.
https://www.bartleby.com/essay/Probability-in-Everyday-Life-and-in-The-F39DGD4C8B6A
Because the teachers said, "Let there be useless math." and there was useless math.
That's a valid question! Probability is indeed a subject that may not have obvious everyday applications for everyone. However, understanding probability is valuable for several reasons:
1. Decision making: Probability helps us make better decisions in uncertain situations. It allows us to assess various outcomes and their likelihoods, helping us choose the most favorable option.
2. Risk assessment: Probability is crucial for understanding and managing risk. Whether it's investing in stocks, predicting the outcome of medical tests, or evaluating insurance policies, probability can aid in assessing the likelihood of different outcomes.
3. Statistical analysis: Probability forms the foundation of statistics. Many real-world problems involve collecting and analyzing data to draw meaningful conclusions. Probability theory provides the tools needed to understand and interpret statistical data.
4. Predictive models: Probability is essential when building predictive models. Whether it's predicting customer behavior, market trends, or disease outbreaks, probability theory allows us to estimate probabilities and make informed predictions.
5. Critical thinking: Learning probability sharpens critical thinking skills. It trains our minds to assess situations objectively, consider multiple perspectives, and weigh evidence and information more effectively.
Now, to truly understand probability, it's helpful to study mathematical concepts such as random variables, probability distributions, and statistical inference. Additionally, learning about different techniques, such as Bayes' theorem, can enhance your ability to make informed decisions based on available information.
While not everyone may become a professional weather forecaster, probability is a fundamental subject that can be applied to many aspects of life, enhancing our decision-making abilities and helping us navigate uncertainties.