Computer Science Basics: Algorithms

You may have lately come across the term Algorithm, either online or at a technological conference. It’s a term that gets bandi about a lot. But, which is the message conveye? Simply described, an algorithm is a set of instructions for completing a task. They serve as the foundation for programs, allowing devices such as computers, cellphones, and websites to function and make decisions.

However, in addition to being utilize by technology, many of the things we perform on a daily basis also algorithmic in nature. Let’s pretend you’re trying to depict some spaghetti. You must follow a specific set of steps in a specific order in order to complete this properly. To begin, bring a bowl of water to a boil.

Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti and cook it for a set amount of time, stirring only occasionally. Drain the ocean once it’s completed, and it’s ready to served with your favorite sauce.

The entire procedure is based on an algorithm. You got your desired result, a lovely pasta saucer, since you followed those processes in that order. However, if you make a mistake, such as over- or under-fixing your pates, it won’t be as good. Programs function in a similar manner. Their code consists of algorithms that instruct them on what to do.

Let’s imagine we wish to receive directions using a navigation software.

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When we enter a destination, the software uses an algorithm to look at all of the available roads. It then checks the current traffic using a separate methodology. The information sent on to a third program, which calculates the best available route. All of these algorithms built right into the code of the app.

If that code contained any errors, the app would be unable to follow these algorithms precisely. In other words, you wouldn’t get your directions.

Both of these classes highlighted how algorithms may used to do routine tasks in both human rights and computers. The difference is that computers are better at using algorithms and calculating things than we are. Technology will only continue to advance and improve in its capabilities.

Algorithms will be at the heart of these technologies directing what they do and how they do it as long as coding and programming used. GCF is a global organization dedicate to improving people’s lives.