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ALGORITHM
Before writing a computer program to solve a problem or to perform any task, a programmer
writes the steps for the same. Writing a program becomes easy if the algorithm is written first.
Algorithms are used in our daily lives, too. For example, a recipe detailing steps to create a dish
is also an algorithm.
An algorithm is a set of instructions or steps performed in a specific order to solve a problem or
to complete a task. In other words, algorithms are the building blocks of computer programs that
comprise a sequence of operations to be performed by the computer in a specific order to solve
a problem.
Which algorithm is used by Google Maps?
CHARACTERISTICS OF AN ALGORITHM
An ideal algorithm has the following characteristics:
Input: An algorithm can take input in zeros or greater quantities. It should have well-defined
input.
Output: At least one result as output is always produced.
Definiteness: All instructions given should be clear and easy to understand.
Finiteness: It should include a finite number of instructions for completing a task.
Effectiveness: It is measured in terms of time and space.
Uniqueness: The result of each step should be uniquely identified and only depend on the result
of the preceding step.
USES OF AN ALGORITHM
An algorithm is mainly used for:
calculations
data processing
decision-making
Algorithms make decision-making more consistent and efficient.
WRITING AN ALGORITHM
Algorithm provides a step-by-step solution to the problem. Let’s write algorithms for some
problems.
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