Algorithm

Computers and Binary Language

The Computer hardware can understand only the binary language comprising of 0's and 1's.

Bit: It is the smallest unit of data in a computer. A bit has a single binary value either 0 or 1 or simply ON or OFF.

Byte: It is comprised of 8 bits.

Word: A group of 16/32/64 bits (depending on the CPU).

Each number or letter is a combination of 0's and 1's.

For example '69' in binary representation can be written as 69 base10 = 01000101 base 2

Algorithm

An algorithm is a finite set of instructions performed in a prescribed sequence to achieve a goal, especially a mathematical rule or procedure used to compute a desired result.

or

An algorithm is a step by step, finite sequence of instructions that leads to the performance of a particular task.

Characteristics of an Algorithm

Input: Zero or more inputs are externally supplied.

Output: At least one output is produced.

Definiteness: Each instruction is clear and impeccable.

Finiteness: If we trace out the instructions of an algorithm, in all cases the algorithm terminates after a finite number of steps.

Effectiveness: Every instruction must be very basic, so that it can be essentially carried out, using a pencil and some paper.

An algorithm to display the sum of three given numbers:

Step 1: Begin

Step 2: Read three numbers a,b,c

Step 3: Store a+b+c in the sum

Step 4: Display the sum

Step 5: End

An Instance

Step 1: Begin

Step 2: given numbers 12, 25, 33

Step 3: sum = 12 + 25 + 33

Step 4: Display "70"

Step 5: End