Odds of being correct if choosing a question at random

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In summary, the question is not well-posed due to its self-referential nature, making it logically invalid. Therefore, the chance of randomly choosing the correct answer cannot be determined.
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alexmahone
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If you choose an answer to this question at random, what is the chance you will be correct.

a. 25%

b.50%

c.60%

d.25%

My answer:
1/3*1/2 + 1/3*1/4 + 1/3*1/4 = 1/6 + 1/6 = 1/3
 
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I have no idea how the given answer is reached.

Suppose the answer is 25%. You will choose that 50% of the time, so the answer is 50%, a contradiction.
Suppose the answer is 50%. You will choose that 25% of the time, so the answer is 25%, a contradiction.
Suppose the answer is 60%. You will choose that 25% of the time, so the answer is 25%, a contradiction.
Suppose the answer is some other value. You will choose that 0% of the time, so the answer is 0%, a consistent result.

But the existence of a consistent result doesn’t make the question "well posed". The self reference makes it logically invalid in the same way that "this statement is false" is invalid.
 
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FAQ: Odds of being correct if choosing a question at random

What are the odds of being correct if choosing a question at random?

The odds of being correct if choosing a question at random depend on the number of possible options and the number of correct answers. If there are only two options and one is correct, the odds would be 1 in 2 or 50%. However, if there are multiple options and only one is correct, the odds would be lower.

Is there a way to increase the odds of being correct when choosing a question at random?

Yes, the odds can be increased by having more knowledge or information about the subject matter. If you have some understanding of the topic, you are more likely to choose the correct answer at random compared to someone with no knowledge.

Can the odds of being correct if choosing a question at random be calculated mathematically?

Yes, the odds can be calculated using a formula that takes into account the number of possible options and the number of correct answers. This formula is often used in statistics and probability calculations.

Are the odds of being correct if choosing a question at random the same for all questions?

No, the odds can vary for different questions depending on the number of options and the difficulty of the question. For example, a question with only two options and one correct answer would have higher odds compared to a question with five options and one correct answer.

How do the odds of being correct if choosing a question at random relate to luck?

The odds of being correct when choosing a question at random are heavily influenced by luck. While having knowledge and understanding can increase the odds, ultimately it is still a game of chance. Luck plays a significant role in whether you choose the correct answer at random or not.

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