The Probability-of-Profit Trap Probability Versus Expectancy Calculator Reviewed 2026-07-31 Formula: Expected value = probability x average gain - failure probability x average loss - transaction costs. Checklist: - Compare probability with average loss size. - Check maximum loss, not only average loss. - Include transaction costs. - Avoid treating a percentage as a full trade thesis. Educational use only. Options involve risk and results depend on your assumptions.