"Yes or no: was there once life on Mars?" I can't say. "What about intelligent life?"' That seems most unlikely, but again, I can't really say. The simple yes-or-no framework has no place for shadings ...

Discover how probability distribution methods can help predict stock market returns and improve investment decisions. Learn to assess risk and potential gains.

Investopedia contributors come from a range of backgrounds, and over 25 years there have been thousands of expert writers and editors who have contributed. Thomas J Catalano is a CFP and Registered ...