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Verifying Sampling Algorithms via Distributional Invariants

Published: September 8, 2025 | arXiv ID: 2509.06410v1

By: Kevin Batz , Joost-Pieter Katoen , Tobias Winkler and more

Potential Business Impact:

Proves computer programs that use randomness work right.

Business Areas:
A/B Testing Data and Analytics

This paper develops a verification framework aimed at establishing the correctness of discrete sampling algorithms. We do so by considering probabilistic programs as distribution transformers. Inspired by recent work on distributional verification of Markov models, we introduce the notion of (inductive) distributional loop invariants for discrete probabilistic programs. These invariants are embedded in a Hoare-like verification framework that includes proof rules for total and partial correctness. To illustrate the applicability of our framework, we prove the correctness of two discrete sampling algorithms: the Fast Dice Roller and the Fast Loaded Dice Roller.

Page Count
47 pages

Category
Computer Science:
Logic in Computer Science