Algorithm
An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or set of rules for solving a problem. It transforms input information into a desired output through a finite sequence of well-defined instructions.
THE IDEA
ALGORITHMS
It’s all in the algorithms. —Sebastian Thrun
An algorithm specifies a sequence of well-defined instructions for solving a problem. It starts with an initial state or input and applies those instructions to produce a result.
Algorithms can be expressed using programming languages, pseudocode, natural language or flowcharts.
An instruction manual for the operation of a household appliance or a series of orders from the boss to an employee to perform a certain task may also include algorithms.
A finite set of instructions need not take the same number of steps for every input. For example, a repeated instruction may run until a condition is met.
Examples in Everyday Life
How to make coffee:
-
- Start
-
- Boil water
-
- Prepare a mug
-
- Put a teaspoon of coffee and sugar
-
- Pour hot water
-
- Stir
-
- End
Brushing Teeth:
-
- Wet toothbrush
-
- Toothpaste on brush
-
- Brush teeth
-
- Spit in sink
-
- Rinse toothbrush
-
- End
When to use it
Programming a computer to solve a complex task
Creating a recipe for cooking a meal
Developing a standard operating procedure for a business process
Designing a decision tree for customer service inquiries
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Making Coffee
- Start
- Boil water
- Prepare a mug
- Put a teaspoon of coffee and sugar
- Pour hot water
- Stir
- End
Brushing Teeth
- Wet toothbrush
- Toothpaste on brush
- Brush teeth
- Spit in sink
- Rinse toothbrush
- End
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Can you break down a daily task into a clear algorithm? What steps are essential and what can be omitted?
Think of a problem you recently solved. Did you follow a conscious or unconscious algorithm?
How might algorithmic thinking improve your decision-making at work?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Wisdom Theory 100 Mental Models (2020) (Wisdom Theory)