An algorithm is basically a step-by-step set of instructions for solving a problem or completing a task. It’s like a recipe in cooking — clear steps you follow to reach a result.
🔹 Simple Definition
An algorithm is:
➡️ A finite sequence of well-defined steps that takes an input, processes it, and produces an output.
🔹 Everyday Examples
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Cooking: A recipe is an algorithm → input (ingredients), steps (mix, heat, stir), output (a meal).
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Navigation App: Input (your location & destination), algorithm (calculate shortest/fastest route), output (directions).
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ATM machine: Input (your card & PIN), algorithm (check balance, verify PIN, update money), output (cash or message).
🔹 In Computers
Algorithms are the core of all programming.
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Sorting: Bubble Sort, Quick Sort → arrange numbers in order.
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Searching: Binary Search → quickly find a word in a dictionary.
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Encryption: Algorithms keep your data secure when banking or chatting online.
🔹 Key Features of a Good Algorithm
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Clear and unambiguous → each step is well defined.
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Finite → must end after a certain number of steps.
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Effective → solves the problem correctly.
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Efficient → should use as little time and resources as possible.
💡 Fun fact: Algorithms are not just for computers — they existed long before programming. Ancient mathematicians like Euclid (around 300 BC) used algorithms to find the greatest common divisor of numbers!
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