Algorithm

ALGORITHM

It is defined as a sequence of instructions that describe a method for solving a problem. In other words it is a step by step procedure for solving a problem.

Properties of Algorithms

v   Should be written in simple English

v   Each and every instruction should be precise and unambiguous.

v   Instructions in an algorithm should not be repeated infinitely.

v   Algorithm should conclude after a finite number of steps.

v   Should have an end point

v   Derived results should be obtained only after the algorithm terminates.

Qualities of a good algorithm

The following are the primary factors that are often used to judge the quality of the algorithms.

Time – To execute a program, the computer system takes some amount of time. The lesser is the time required, the better is the algorithm.

Memory – To execute a program, computer system takes some amount of memory space. The lesser is the memory required, the better is the algorithm.

Accuracy – Multiple algorithms may provide suitable or correct solutions to a given problem, some of these may provide more accurate results than others, and such algorithms may be suitable.

Example

Write an algorithm to print „Good Morning”

Step 1: Start

Step 2: Print “Good Morning”

Step 3: Stop