How do I find probabilities using a normal distribution?
It is likely that your calculator has a function that can find normal probabilities, if so it is a good idea to learn to use it so that you can check your probabilities
However you must show your calculations to get the z values and use the tables to get all the marks
How do I calculate the probability for a normal distribution?
Worked Example
Inverse Normal Distribution
Given the value of P(X < a) or P(X > a) how do I find the value of a?
Given a probability you will have to look through the table of the normal distribution to locate the z-value that corresponds with that probability
Look at whether your probability is greater or less than 0.5 and the direction of the inequality to determine whether your z-value will be positive or negative
You do not need to remember these, a sketch will help you see it
Always sketch a diagram
If your probability is less than 0.5 you will need to subtract it from one to find the corresponding z value
Remember that the position of the z-value will not change, only the direction of the inequality
Worked Example
Exam Tip
The most common mistake students make when finding values from given probabilities is forgetting to check whether the z-value should be negative or not. Avoid this by checking early on using a sketch whether z is positive or negative and writing a note to yourself before starting the other calculations.