Fundamental principle of counting — A/L Combined Mathematics

How do I practise Fundamental principle of counting?

1 question with a worked solution

Check before you answer: Multiplication vs Addition Distinction: Accurately determining whether independent successive stages require multiplication or alternative disjoint cases require addition.

1. A student chooses an outfit consisting of one shirt and one pair of trousers. If there are 4 different shirts and 3 different pairs of trousers available, how many distinct outfits can be formed according to the Fundamental Principle of Counting?
   1. A) 12
   2. B) 10
   3. C) 7
   4. D) 24
   Check my answer

   Correct answer: A) 12

   According to the Multiplication Principle of Counting, if a first task can be performed in m ways and a second independent task in n ways, the two tasks in succession can be performed in m × n ways: 4 × 3 = 12 distinct outfits.

   Show worked solution

   Step 1: Apply multiplication principle: Total = 4 × 3 = 12. Answer: 12.
   Modelled on: the A/L Combined Mathematics examination pattern

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Where does Fundamental principle of counting fit in the syllabus?

Year 2 · Term 1