Matrix Games and Linear Programming Fundamentals

Understanding strategic decision-making in competitive environments requires clear mathematical frameworks. Matrix games and linear programming provide the essential tools needed to analyze conflict and identify optimal outcomes. In this text-based course, you will learn how to formulate competitive scenarios and solve zero-sum games through linear optimization. What you will learn: Understand fundamental terminology including payoff matrices, pure strategies, and saddle points; Formulate mixed strategy models for matrix games lacking pure equilibrium; Apply linear programming principles and duality to model strategic choices; Solve optimization problems using systematic quantitative approaches; Explore modern algorithmic solver workflows using simple Python code snippets. You will begin with core definitions and basic game theory principles before progressing to linear models and solution methods. This course is designed for beginners in quantitative reasoning, business analytics, and operations research, requiring no advanced prerequisites. Start reading today to master the foundations of strategic linear optimization.