When to use permutation/combination in a given question of permutation and combunation?
Permutation:
Each of the arrangements which can be made by taking some or all of a number of things is called a permutation. For example, if there are three objects x, y and z, then the permutations of these objects taking two at a time are xy, xz, yx, yz, zx and zy. In permutation the order of arrangement is taken into account. When the order is changed, a different permutation is obtained. The notation of permutation is given by
Combination:
Each of the different selections made by taking some or all objects irrespective of their arrangement is called combination. For example, if there are three objects x, y and z, then the combinations of these objects taking two at a time are {x,y}, {y,z} and {z,x}. In combination the order of arrangement is not taken into account.
In simple language,
⇒ If the order does matter, it is permutation.
⇒ If the order doesn't matter, it is combination.