Probability and Statistics for Computer Scientists

Michael Baron

Taylor & Francis, Dec 13, 2006 - Mathematics - 432 pages

In modern computer science, software engineering, and other fields, the need arises to make decisions under uncertainty. Presenting probability and statistical methods, simulation techniques, and modeling tools, Probability and Statistics for Computer Scientists helps students solve problems and make optimal decisions in uncertain conditions, select stochastic models, compute probabilities and forecasts, and evaluate performance of computer systems and networks.

After introducing probability and distributions, this easy-to-follow textbook provides two course options. The first approach is a probability-oriented course that begins with stochastic processes, Markov chains, and queuing theory, followed by computer simulations and Monte Carlo methods. The second approach is a more standard, statistics-emphasized course that focuses on statistical inference, estimation, hypothesis testing, and regression. Assuming one or two semesters of college calculus, the book is illustrated throughout with numerous examples, exercises, figures, and tables that stress direct applications in computer science and software engineering. It also provides MATLAB® codes and demonstrations written in simple commands that can be directly translated into other computer languages.

By the end of this course, advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students should be able to read a word problem or a corporate report, realize the uncertainty involved in the described situation, select a suitable probability model, estimate and test its parameters based on real data, compute probabilities of interesting events and other vital characteristics, and make appropriate conclusions and forecasts.

What people are saying

Review: Probability and Statistics for Computer Scientists

User Review  - mirela Darau - Goodreads

- found it suitable for my Computer Science students. The main reasons for choosing it were the average mathematical level (theory is presented in a fairly simple mathematical context, which was great ...

Review: Probability and Statistics for Computer Scientists

User Review  - Tim - Goodreads

As a CS major, I found this book perfectly geared for the intersection of Computer Science and Probabilities/Statistics. It covers the major application areas of the latter in the former in a relevant ...

About the author

Michael Baron is professor of statistics at the University of Texas at Dallas, USA

Bibliographic information

• Title: Probability and Statistics for Computer Scientists
• Author: Michael Baron
• Edition: illustrated
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis, 2006
• ISBN: 1584886412, 9781584886419
• Length: 432 pages
• Subjects: Computers / General; Mathematics / Probability & Statistics / General