Algorithm

computer science · problem-solving · logic · math

Step-by-step instructions. An algorithm is like a recipe for your computer. Just as a recipe tells you exactly which ingredients to add and in what order to bake a cake, an algorithm gives precise instructions for solving a problem or doing a calculation.

Solves specific problems. Algorithms are designed to handle a particular type of problem, like finding the fastest route between two places or sorting a list of names alphabetically. The same algorithm can solve many similar problems, not just one.

Makes smart decisions. Advanced algorithms can make choices about what to do next based on the information they receive. They can say things like 'if this is true, do this' or 'if that is true, do that,' letting them find the best path to the answer.

Used everywhere daily. Algorithms power things you use all the time, from Google search results to Netflix recommendations to video games. Every time your phone or computer figures something out quickly and correctly, an algorithm is working behind the scenes.

Built on logic. Algorithms must follow strict mathematical rules and logic so they always work the same way and produce correct answers. This makes them reliable enough for computers to follow automatically, millions of times per second.