This probability game is an electronic version of the old TV game
show "Let's Make a Deal" which was hosted by Monty Hall. In the show, a
contestant was given a choice of three doors of which one contained a
prize.
The other two doors contained gag gifts like a chicken or a donkey.
After
the contestant chose an initial door, the host of the show then
revealed
an empty door among the two unchosen doors, and asks the contestant if
he or she would like to switch to the other unchosen door. The question
is should the contestant stay or switch. Do the odds of winning
increase
by switching to the remaining door?
Open the following link and experiment with the game:
After playing a few games, decide whether you should stay or
switch
after Monty reveals the second door to you. Why?
Find a mathematical, theoretical explanation whether you should
switch or stick with your first choice.
Clicking on the Strategy button will lead to a series of questions whose answers will help explain the probability of winning with each strategy.
Updated: 08/21/2003
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