Learning to “Algorithm”!

I would want to start with an enthralling quote:

The set of universe and all the species may be under a state of execution of the best and beautiful algorithm developed by the supreme authority.

– Unknown

Indeed a fascinating quote!!!

The word algorithm may not seem to be less complicated, but the truth is that algorithms are all around us, governing everything from the technology we use to the different decisions we make every day. Though some algorithms are complex but the concept itself is quite simple.

From the computing perspective, an algorithm can be simply defined as a step by step instruction set that instructs the computer how to perform the task.

But not just in regards to computing, in a most general way, algorithms are everywhere. The recipe for baking a cake is an algorithm, the process of ironing a shirt is an algorithm or simply routine of getting ready every day in the morning to leave for college is an algorithm.

The easiest way to learn to devise algorithms is to start challenging ourselves and start converting our most important tasks in our daily routine into step by step procedure. This is not where we master practicing algorithms, in fact, this is just the beginning.

Challenge yourselves to be more specific with the instructions. This is because unlike humans, computers don’t understand our intentions.

Consider the example that you want to pour juice in a cup, and you write the instruction in your algorithm as

“Step n: Pour the juice and add sugar for taste.”

In this statement, the cup is not mentioned, thus ultimately, the juice will be poured on the floor if such statement is given to the computer for execution. Thus, more detailed and specific steps of instructions would ultimately make you a perfect algorithm practitioner and avoid such incidents.

Algorithmic thinking brings clarity in ideas and develops the ability to solve a problem with the perfect and definite amount of steps. It helps to break down the problem and think conceptually.

Thereby, the more specific your instructions are, the more professional you become in practicing algorithms.

(Image source: www.dreamstime.com)

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