Organized counting is the systematic enumeration of outcomes in finite sample spaces by dividing possibilities into distinct, nonoverlapping cases and applying the addition and multiplication principles, often represented with tree diagrams, tables, or lists. The understanding includes distinguishing ordered from unordered selections and accounting for repetition or restrictions through permutations, combinations, and complementary counting, providing the basis for equally likely probability models; abstract combinatorial methods and generalized infinite cases are not included.
Organized counting means dividing a problem into clear, nonoverlapping cases, counting each case, and then adding the results. Within one case, use multiplication when choices happen in stages.
How many 4-digit even numbers can be formed from the digits without repetition?
We will organize the count by the possible last digit.
The number has the form
Using multiplication:
Thus,
A number cannot end in both and or , so the cases do not overlap. Therefore, use addition:
There are such 4-digit even numbers.
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