An algorithm in computer science is:
- Finite sequence of well defined (clear) instructions
- Used to solve a problem or perform a computation
- In data processing
- Finite
- Well-defined inputs
- Well-defined outputs
- Feasible
- Language independent
- Instructions are unambiguous
- Algorithm not biased
- Faster + cheaper
- Algorithms can be badly designed
- Removes the human component
"A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing some end especially by a computer" - Merriam-Webster
Because of their speed and reliability computers are an ideal tool for running algorithms
Algorithms are:
- a sequence of instructions
- a way of capturing intelligence
- general solutions to problems
- expressed in a variety of different ways
- characterised by input, processing and output