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Calculate Expected Streaks in Coin Toss Sequence

UpstartData Scientist · Onsite
EasyData ScientistOnsiteStatistics & Math

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Calculate Expected Streaks in Coin Toss Sequence evaluates statistical assumptions, formulas, estimation strategy, uncertainty, edge cases, and interpretation in a realistic interview setting. A strong answer states assumptions, handles edge cases, explains trade-offs, and shows how to validate the result clearly.

Scenario

Tech interview round 1 – probability puzzle about streaks

Question

We toss a fair coin 1,000 times. Each time the outcome differs from the previous toss, a new streak begins (the first toss also starts a streak). What is the expected number of streaks? Generalise the expected streak count when the coin shows heads with probability p.

Hints

Indicator for change between toss i and i+1; linearity of expectation.