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Probability calculator

Calculate the probability of an event from the favorable cases and the total possible cases.

Probability
16.67%
As decimal0.1667
Odds (for : against)1 : 5

Probability = favorable ÷ total cases. Ranges from 0 (impossible) to 1 (certain).

Interactive lesson: The birthday paradox In a room of 23 people, the odds two share a birthday are 50%. Run the experiment and watch it happen.

How the calculation works

Probability measures the chance of an event, from 0 (impossible) to 1 (certain) — or 0% to 100%. In the classic form:

P = favorable cases ÷ total possible cases

Step-by-step example

Rolling a 5 on a 6-sided die: 1 favorable case in 6 → 1/6 ≈ 16.67%.

Combined events

  • "AND" (independent): multiply. Two 6s in a row: 1/36.
  • "OR" (exclusive): add. A 5 or 6: 1/3.
  • Complement: P(not happening) = 1 − P(happening).

Examples

  • Heads on a coin: 1/2 = 50%.
  • Drawing an ace from 52 cards: 4/52 ≈ 7.7%.

Frequently asked questions

Can probability exceed 100%?

No. The maximum is 100% (a certain event).

Chance of two events together?

For independent events, multiply the probabilities. E.g. two heads in a row = 1/4.

What is complementary probability?

The chance of something NOT happening: 1 minus the event's probability. Often the easiest route.

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Updated on June 18, 2026 · by Rafael Rossi · Methodology & sources