What This Document Is
This is a practice problem set designed to help you prepare for Test One in MATH 109, General Mathematics at Western Kentucky University. It focuses on foundational concepts in counting principles, probability, and combinatorics – the mathematics of arrangements and selections. The material is presented in a problem-solving format, mirroring the style of questions you can expect on the actual assessment. It’s intended to be a hands-on review of core ideas.
Why This Document Matters
If you’re currently enrolled in MATH 109 and aiming for a strong performance on Test One, this resource is invaluable. It’s particularly useful for students who learn best by *doing* – working through problems reinforces understanding far more effectively than simply reading notes. Use this practice set to identify areas where your understanding is solid and pinpoint topics needing further review *before* the test. It’s a great way to build confidence and reduce test-day anxiety. Students who struggle with applying mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios will also find this particularly helpful.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This practice set does *not* include detailed explanations of the underlying mathematical principles. It assumes you have already been exposed to the concepts in class or through assigned readings. It also doesn’t offer step-by-step solutions; the emphasis is on your ability to independently apply the correct formulas and reasoning. While the problems cover a range of typical test questions, it is not a comprehensive list of *every* possible question type. It is designed to supplement, not replace, your regular coursework.
What This Document Provides
* A series of practice problems covering basic counting techniques.
* Exercises relating probability to lottery scenarios and payoffs.
* Problems focused on permutations – ordered arrangements of items.
* Practice with combinations – selections of items where order doesn’t matter.
* Applications of Pascal’s Triangle to counting problems.
* Problems involving selecting items from distinct sets with varying constraints.
* Practice applying counting principles to real-world scenarios like lock codes and motorcycle tags.
