Ross often includes subtle hints in the problem wording (e.g., "independent," "stationary," or "ergodic"). Ensure the solution you are reading addresses these specific constraints.
The "birth-death process" problems are standard, but Ross adds twists with (also called randomization). A high-quality solution for the 2nd edition will show you how to convert a CTMC into a discrete-time Markov chain embedded with exponential holding times. --- Sheldon M Ross Stochastic Process 2nd Edition Solution
Solutions demonstrate how to use martingales to find the probability of a process hitting a boundary (like the Gambler’s Ruin) without solving complex differential equations. Ross often includes subtle hints in the problem wording (e