Single draw from a 52-card deck. What is the probability that the card is either red or a king (count red kings only once)?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 7/13

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The event “red or king” requires inclusion–exclusion to avoid double-counting the red kings. Compute the probability in one draw from a standard deck.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Red cards = 26 (hearts + diamonds).
  • Kings = 4 total.
  • Overlap (red kings) = 2 (K♥, K♦).


Concept / Approach:
Use P(A ∪ B) = P(A) + P(B) − P(A ∩ B) with card counts.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Count-based: favorable = 26 + 4 − 2 = 28.Probability = 28/52 = 7/13.



Verification / Alternative check:
Fraction approach: 1/2 + 1/13 − 1/26 = 7/13.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
1/2 ignores kings of black suits; 6/13 or 27/52 misapply inclusion–exclusion; 5/13 undercounts.



Common Pitfalls:
Double-counting red kings; forgetting there are two red suits.



Final Answer:
7/13

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