What Are Algorithms?

• Definition: An algorithm is like a recipe. It gives you step-by-step instructions to solve a problem.

• Why Are Algorithms Important in Computer Science?:

  • Algorithms are the building blocks for how programs work.
  • They help us do things like sort lists (like quicksort and mergesort) and find items (like binary search).

Some Stats:

• A 2021 study found that 85% of people who work in computer science say algorithms are really important. They help make tasks faster and easier.
• A good algorithm can make a process quicker. For example, it can change how long it takes to do something from a complicated $O(n^2)$ to a much simpler $O(n \log n)$. This makes a big difference, especially with large amounts of data.

In short, understanding algorithms is key to solving problems and writing computer programs effectively.