Discrete Structures Reviewer – 2nd Periodical Examination
Part A: Multiple Choice Review
Counting Principles & Probability
1. The fundamental counting principle states that if one event can occur in "m" ways and another
in "n" ways, the total possible outcomes = m × n.
2. Permutations (order matters):
o Formula: P(n, r) = n! / (n - r)!
o Example: Arranging 3 out of 5 bands → P(5,3) = 5! / (5 - 3)! = 60
3. Combinations (order does not matter):
o Formula: C(n, r) = n! / [r!(n - r)!]
o Example: Choosing 3 students from a group of 7 → C(7,3) = 35
Permutation & Arrangements
1. Rearranging Letters:
o Unique letters: Use n!
o Repeating letters: n! / (repeating factor)!
o Example: “APPLE” → 5! / 2! = 60
2. Digits in a number:
o Without repetition: P(n, r)
o With repetition: n^r
o Example: 3-digit number using 0-9 → 10 × 10 × 10 = 1000
Set Theory & Relations
1. Types of Relations:
o One-to-One: Each input has a unique output.
o Many-to-One: Multiple inputs map to the same output.
o One-to-Many: One input has multiple outputs.
o Many-to-Many: Multiple inputs and outputs.
2. Equivalence Relation Conditions:
o Reflexive (a = a)
o Symmetric (a = b → b = a)
o Transitive (a = b, b = c → a = c)
3. Functions vs. Relations:
o Every function is a relation, but not all relations are functions.
Graph Theory
1. Digraphs: Directed graphs with arrows.
2. Basic Graph Elements:
o Vertices (nodes)
o Edges (connections)
Part B: Problem-Solving Practice
1. Sports Team Selection:
o A basketball coach needs to pick 3 players from a group of 6 to form a lineup where
position matters.
o How many different ways can he arrange the players?
o Hint: Since order is important, think about how many choices are available for each
position.
2. Phone Passcode:
o A phone requires a 5-digit passcode using numbers 0-9, but no number can be
repeated.
o How many different passcodes can be created?
o Hint: Start by determining how many options you have for the first digit, then the next,
and so on.