Data Structures and Algorithms - Old Questions
5. What are the major characteristics of algorithms?
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Asked in 2065
An algorithm is a sequence of unambiguous instructions used for solving a problem, which can be implemented (as a program) on a computer
Algorithms are used to convert our problem solution into step by step statements. These statements can be converted into computer programming instructions which forms a program. This program is executed by computer to produce solution. Here, program takes required data as input, processes data according to the program instructions and finally produces result as shown in the following picture
Characteristics of Algorithm:
- Input - Every algorithm must take zero or more number of input values from external.
- Output - Every algorithm must produce an output as result.
- Definiteness - Every statement/instruction in an algorithm must be clear and unambiguous (only one interpretation)
- Finiteness - For all different cases, the algorithm must produce result within a finite number of steps.
- Effectiveness - Every instruction must be basic enough to be carried out and it also must be feasible.
- Correctness: Correct set of output values must be produced from the each set of inputs.