Selecting items at random

At the core of probability and randomness is the idea of selecting an item from some kind of collection. As we know, the probability of selecting an item from a collection quantifies the likelihood of that item being selected. Randomness describes the selection of items from a collection according to probabilities without any additional bias. The opposite of a random selection might be described as a deterministic selection. In general, it is very difficult to replicate a purely random process using a computer because computers and their processing are inherently deterministic. However, we can generate sequences of pseudorandom numbers that, when properly constructed, demonstrate a reasonable approximation of randomness.

In this recipe, we will select items from a collection and learn about some of the key terminology associated with probability and randomness that we will need throughout this chapter.

Getting ready

The Python Standard Library contains...