Algorithms

What is an algorithm?

• An algorithm is a procedure or formula for solving a problem, based on conducting a sequence of specified actions. A computer program can be viewed as an elaborate algorithm. In mathematics and computer science, an algorithm usually means a small procedure that solves a recurrent problem.

Characteristics of an algorithm

• Precision – the steps are precisely stated(defined).
• Uniqueness – results of each step are uniquely definedand only depend on the input and the result of the preceding steps.
• Finiteness – the algorithm stops after a finite number of instructions are executed.

Input device

• An input device is any hardware device that sends data to a computer, allowing you to interact with and control the computer. The picture shows a Logitech trackball mouse, an example of an input device.

repetitive: Control allows for the repetition of a certain task based on a condition

Selective: Control follows one of several alternatives of logic flow based on a condition