Algorithm and Data structure (Lecture # 4)

Algorithm:
A step by step solution to a problem is called algorithm

A typical programming task can be divided into two phases.

1)     Problem Solution Phase
Produce an ordered sequence of steps that deserve solution of problem.
This sequence of steps is called an algorithm.

2)     Implementation Phase
Implement the program in some programming language.
- First produce a general algorithm (one can use pseudo code)

3)     Pseudo code
Pseudo code is an artificial and informal language that helps programmer develop an algorithm
Pseudo code is very similar to everyday English
- And algorithm is a step by step solution of a specific mathematical or computer related problem.

Approaches to write algorithm

There two different approaches to written algorithm

1.     Formal style algorithm
Heading of algorithm

Step by step algorithm

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Exit

2.     Informal style algorithm
It is written in a human language e.g, English suits a pure pseudo code

e.g,

Step # 1

Defined in English
Step # 2

Defined in English

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Step # n

Finish/Exit

Computation tool

It is something that speaks for you are not there.