Expected value

Expected value: use outcomes, probabilities. Review the formula, worked example and calculation steps.

Inputs

Use the units shown
RESULT
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Formula & explanation
E[X] = Σ xᵢpᵢ

Variables & units

Outcomes
comma separated
Probabilities
comma separated

Worked example

80% chance of 0 and 20% chance of 10 gives expectation 2.

Assumptions

An expected value need not be an outcome that can occur on a single trial.

Formula version 1.0.0. JavaScript floating-point arithmetic applies. Results display up to 6 decimal places; stored values retain available precision. Use the units shown.

Practice with an example

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