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                    Algorithm


            An algorithm is a step-by-step approach to identify and solve a problem in a finite time. It is used in a problem-
            solving phase of any programming task and helps in defining the clear instructions in sequence. An algorithm uses
            simple English-like statements to represent the steps of a program. There may be more than one way to solve any
            problem, so there may be more than one algorithm for a given problem. It must terminate after a finite number
            of steps. Once we have an algorithm, we can translate it into a computer program in any programming language.




                            Brainy Fact

                 The word 'algorithm' come from the name of a Persian mathematician called Al-Khwārizmī.





            Writing an Algorithm
            Let us do an activity of writing an algorithm for making cucumber and tomato sandwich:

            Step 1   Take a few slices of tomato and a cucumber.

            Step 2   Take two slices of multigrain bread.

            Step 3   Put tomato sauce on one slice.
            Step 4   Put cheese spread on another slice.

            Step 5   Place a few slices of tomato and cucumber between the two slices of bread.

            Step 6   Cut it into two halves and serve it.


            Advantages of an Algorithm
            Advantages of an algorithm are as follows:
               • It is a step-by-step representation of a solution to a given problem.
               • It uses simple English-like statements so it is easy to understand and write.
               • The problem is  broken down  into smaller pieces, hence it is  easy to convert it into a program using any
              programming language.

            Disadvantages of an Algorithm

            Disadvantages of an algorithm are as follows:
               • Since there is no standard rule for writing an algorithm, it varies drastically.
               • It is a time-consuming process.
               • It is difficult to represent branching and looping in an algorithm.





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