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ALGORITHM
In our daily lives, we often follow step-by-step instructions to complete tasks, such as following a
recipe to cook a meal or a set of directions to reach a destination. These sequences of actions are
examples of algorithms in everyday life. Just as these instructions help us achieve specific goals
efficiently, algorithms in computer science provide a structured approach to solving problems
and performing tasks.
An algorithm is a set of instructions or steps 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:
Precision: Each step is precisely defined.
Uniqueness: The result of each step can be uniquely identified and only depends on the result
of the preceding step.
Finiteness: It stops after a finite number of instructions are executed.
Well-Defined Input: The input to an algorithm must be clearly specified and precisely defined.
Well-Defined Output: The output produced by the algorithm must also be clearly specified and
precisely defined.
Effectiveness: The algorithm should be efficient in terms of time and space.
USES OF AN ALGORITHM
An algorithm is mainly used for: Just as a peacock’s call can
signal upcoming rain, computer
Performing data processing
algorithms can predict future
Performing logical and mathematical operations events based on data patterns.
Manipulating data
Searching for a particular data
WRITING AN ALGORITHM
Algorithm provides a step-by-step solution to the problem. Let’s write an algorithm for some
problems.
Algorithm, Flowchart and Mind Maps 109

