Building and interpreting Markov chain models is a crucial skill for anyone preparing for the SOA Exam C or working in actuarial science. Markov chains are powerful tools that help us model complex systems by predicting future outcomes based on current states. They are especially useful in insurance and finance, where understanding how systems evolve over time is vital. As you prepare for the exam or apply these models in real-world scenarios, it’s essential to grasp both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of Markov chains.