What is an algorithm?
A computer algorithm is a step by step process through which a computer program executes a series of actions. There are various computer programs that work in various ways even though they may be used to perform the same function. Computer algorithms have both advantages and disadvantages and it is based on these pros and cons that programmers make informed choices on which set of algorithms to use in their application programming. In other words, an algorithm is a mathematical approach used in solving a given problem.
Types of Computer algorithms
There are several known categories of algorithms and this article will list the most common ones. These include:
- Backtracking algorithms
- Divide and conquer algorithms
- Dynamic programming algorithms
- Recursive algorithms
- Brute force algorithms
- Randomized algorithms
- Greedy algorithms
With backtracking algorithms, they seek to find solutions to a problem by subdividing the problem into smaller subsets and finding solutions to these subdivisions. If at the end of solving the sub-problem, the solution is not correct, the process of resolving is repeated by undoing whatever has been done and starting afresh.
Divide and conquer algorithms
Divide and conquer algorithms have a similar feature to backtracking as they also subdivide the initial problem into two parts. These two parts can also be further subdivided into sub-problems, which are then grouped based on similarity. Each problem is resolved recursively and these solutions are combined to find the solution to the original problem.
Dynamic programming algorithms
With the dynamic algorithms, the algorithm subdivides the problem into smaller sets and solves each problem only once. However, it stores results of each solution and in case the sub-problem occurs later, it uses results of the previous solutions to resolve the newer problem. By doing this, the algorithm avoids redundancy, makes optimal use of resources and speeds up the problem-solving activities.
This algorithm breaks problems into smaller problems and is ideal for cases when a problem can be broken down into simpler divisions. The algorithm then resolves the easier problems first before resolving the more difficult sub-problems.
Brute force algorithms
This type of algorithm tries all solutions to solving a problem until a solution is found. It only stops once a solution is found meaning that it can try all possible solutions before it can stop. In the worst case scenario, the algorithm can be extremely time-consuming.
A randomized algorithm is used in special cases when a computation requires the use of a number to make a decision. The algorithm then chooses a random number and uses this number as the pivot on which other computations can reference.
How do Computer algorithms work?
As aforementioned, algorithms take a sequential approach to find a solution to a given problem. Computer science algorithms are an essential part of a program and an application needs to have an algorithm, which determines how the program instructions will be executed. For instance, it is critical that a solution to a problem whose results will be required for other problems be resolved first. In such an instance, the algorithm will prioritize the instructions to ensure smooth execution of the program’s instructions.
In Computer Science (CS) the algorithm design is essential when choosing the right algorithm to incorporate into the programming. Knowing how an algorithm in programming works also helps programmers when they want to update or make changes to the program’s code. CS algorithms are among the most critical topics in computer science and learners often learn this the hard way. It is essential, therefore, that learners seek algorithm assignment help from knowledgeable experts in this field to offer insight and guidance into this tricky topic of computer science.