An algorithm is a well-defined, finite sequence of instructions for solving a problem or performing a computation.
It is formally specified and can be executed by a machine. Algorithms form the foundation of all software and are central to theoretical computer science.
The analysis of algorithms includes aspects such as time complexity and space complexity, often expressed using Big O notation.
Algorithms are used in a wide range of applications, from simple data processing tasks to complex artificial intelligence systems.
Definition:
An algorithm is a finite sequence of unambiguous, executable instructions designed to solve a problem.
Source:
Cormen, Leiserson, Rivest, Stein – Introduction to Algorithms, MIT Press.