Skip to content
← All questions

What is the formula for conditional probability P(A|B) and how is it read from a Venn diagram?

For a conditioning event with positive probability, the formula is P(A∣B)=P(A∩B)/P(B)P(A\mid B)=P(A\cap B)/P(B). On a Venn diagram, the overlap region (A∩BA \cap B) serves as the numerator, and the entire conditioning region (BB) serves as the denominator.

Conditions

  • The conditioning event B has a positive probability (P(B)>0P(B) > 0).

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Identify the intersection of events A and B (A∩BA \cap B).
  2. Identify the entire region of the conditioning event B.
  3. Divide the probability of the intersection by the probability of the conditioning event.

Example

The script states: "For a conditioning event with positive probability, P(A∣B)=P(A∩B)/P(B)P(A\mid B)=P(A\cap B)/P(B). The overlap is the numerator and the entire conditioning region is the denominator."

Common misconceptions

  • Using the entire sample space as the denominator instead of just the conditioning event B.
  • Thinking the formula applies when P(B)=0P(B) = 0.

Watch the explanation

Connected concepts

Explore next

Related questions

Find a method

↗
Understand why

↗
Find a method

↗
Find a method

↗
Find a method

↗

Answers are generated from source material and independently checked. Consult the original video or creator if something is unclear.