Elements of Stochastic Modeling

This textbook has been developed from the lecture notes for a one-semester course on stochastic modelling. It reviews the basics of probability theory and then covers the following topics: Markov chains, Markov decision processes, elements of queueing theory, basic renewal theory, elements of time series and simulation. Rigorous proofs are often replaced with sketches of arguments - with indications as to why a particular result holds, and also how it is connected with other results - and illustrated by examples. Wherever possible, the book includes references to more specialized texts containing both proofs and more advanced material related to the topics covered.