What is an algorithm? Simply explained

Frequently this question arises when it comes to software or the operation of computers. After all, algorithms are the basis for the digital world to exist at all. What exactly is behind the term algorithm and how much do they now determine our everyday life?

That's an algorithm

• An algorithm is a standardized procedure. It is used to execute various instructions one after another in a specific, fixed order. It involves a procedure that converts an input into an output specified by a function. In mathematics, there are numerous examples of this, since an algorithm can be represented by a mathematical formula. A simple algorithm is, for example, the calculation of the BMI.
• In general, an algorithm is therefore a procedure with which a certain problem can be solved.
• Algorithms are executable by both machines and humans and have various properties that describe the efficiency of the algorithm.
• Algorithms follow certain criteria. For example, many algorithms are fixed to a "finite length". That is, they do not run infinitely long, but end after a fixed number of steps.
• In relation to algorithms also exists the term "well-defined". It describes algorithms that are absolutely unique in their structure. They must exist because you are significantly involved in the particular system. One of the best-known, well-defined algorithms is the PageRank algorithm, which provides for the order of results of any Google search.

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