Questions / Quant trading, Counting & stopping
Where two strong players can meet
Eight distinct players are placed uniformly in the eight slots of a fixed single-elimination bracket. Two specified players always beat everyone else. What is the probability they meet in the final? Enter a percentage.
Answer it in the app It's free. You get hints, a second try if you miss, and a follow-up question.
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Answer: 57.14% (4/7)
- The other specified player must be in the opposite four-slot half. Four of the seven possible slots qualify, so the probability is 4/7. Their guaranteed wins over others then bring both to the final.
Interview shortcut. The partner must be in the other half: 4 of the 7 remaining slots.
In the app this has a follow-up where one thing about the setup changes. Try the follow-up.