English

Probabilistic Output Analysis by Program Manipulation

Programming Languages 2015-09-30 v1

Abstract

The aim of a probabilistic output analysis is to derive a probability distribution of possible output values for a program from a probability distribution of its input. We present a method for performing static output analysis, based on program transformation techniques. It generates a probability function as a possibly uncomputable expression in an intermediate language. This program is then analyzed, transformed, and approximated. The result is a closed form expression that computes an over approximation of the output probability distribution for the program. We focus on programs where the possible input follows a known probability distribution. Tests in programs are not assumed to satisfy the Markov property of having fixed branching probabilities independently of previous history.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.1509.08566,
  title  = {Probabilistic Output Analysis by Program Manipulation},
  author = {Mads Rosendahl and Maja H. Kirkeby},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:1509.08566},
  year   = {2015}
}

Comments

In Proceedings QAPL 2015, arXiv:1509.08169

R2 v1 2026-06-22T11:07:42.296Z