Monte Carlo Integration

Abstract

While Chapter 2 focused on the simulation techniques useful to produce random variables by computer, this chapter introduces the major concepts of Monte Carlo methods; that is, taking advantage of the availability of computer-generated random variables to approximate univariate and multidimensional integrals. In Section 3.2, we introduce the basic notion of Monte Carlo approximations as a by-product of the Law of Large Numbers, while Section 3.3 highlights the universality of the approach by stressing the versatility of the representation of an integral as an expectation. Chapter 5 will similarly deal with the resolution of optimization problems by simulation techniques.

“Every time I think I know what’s going on, suddenly there’s another layer of complications. I just want this damn thing solved.”

John Scalzi

The Last Colony