Real-life examples that define the use of algorithms
- Consider a clock. We know the clock is ticking but how does the manufacturer set those nuts and bolts so that it keeps on moving every 60 seconds, the min hand should move and every 60 mins, the hour hand should move? So to solve this problem, there must be an algorithm behind it.
- Seen someone cooking your favorite food for you? Is the recipe necessary for it? Yes, it is necessary as a recipe is a sequential procedure that turns a raw potato into a chilly potato. This is what an algorithm is: following a procedure to get the desired output. Is the sequence necessary to be followed? Yes, the sequence is the most important thing that has to be followed to get what we want.
Definition, Types, Complexity and Examples of Algorithm
An algorithm is a well-defined sequential computational technique that accepts a value or a collection of values as input and produces the output(s) needed to solve a problem.
Or we can say that an algorithm is said to be accurate if and only if it stops with the proper output for each input instance.
NEED OF THE ALGORITHMS :
Algorithms are used to solve problems or automate tasks in a systematic and efficient manner. They are a set of instructions or rules that guide the computer or software in performing a particular task or solving a problem.
There are several reasons why we use algorithms:
- Efficiency: Algorithms can perform tasks quickly and accurately, making them an essential tool for tasks that require a lot of calculations or data processing.
- Consistency: Algorithms are repeatable and produce consistent results every time they are executed. This is important when dealing with large amounts of data or complex processes.
- Scalability: Algorithms can be scaled up to handle large datasets or complex problems, which makes them useful for applications that require processing large volumes of data.
- Automation: Algorithms can automate repetitive tasks, reducing the need for human intervention and freeing up time for other tasks.
- Standardization: Algorithms can be standardized and shared among different teams or organizations, making it easier for people to collaborate and share knowledge.
Overall, algorithms are an essential tool for solving problems in a variety of fields, including computer science, engineering, data analysis, finance, and many others.
Example:
Consider a box where no one can see what’s happening inside, we say a black box.
We give input to the box and it gives us the output we need but the procedure that we might need to know behind the conversion of input to desired output is an ALGORITHM.
An algorithm is independent of the language used. It tells the programmer the logic used to solve the problem. So, it is a logical step-by-step procedure that acts as a blueprint to programmers.