Algorithms and Pseudocode Basics

Created by

@ImprovingCrocus

Study Notes

Algorithms are processes or sets of rules followed in calculations or problem-solving operations
They are sets of rules/instructions that define how a task is executed step-by-step to achieve the desired outcome
Algorithms can be understood through examples like following a cooking recipe
Algorithms help programmers do tasks to get the expected outputs in programming

Pseudocode is a simplified way of writing programming code using English phrases
It's a stepping stone before writing actual code in a specific programming language
It's helpful for outlining program logic before implementation.
Pseudocode examples can cover adding numbers and calculating rectangular area.

Clear and Unambiguous: Algorithm steps must be clear and unambiguous, having only one interpretation
Well-Defined Inputs: Inputs must be clearly defined if required by the algorithm
Well-Defined Outputs: The output expected by the algorithm must be explicitly defined
Finite: The algorithm must have a finite number of steps and not result in infinite loops
Feasible: The algorithm must be simple, practical and executeable using the available resources.
Language Independent: The algorithm's design should be language-independent which means it can be implemented in any programming language.

Algorithms help understand the problem clearly
They represent a step-by-step solution to a given problem
Breaking down problems into smaller steps simplifies converting these solutions into actual programs.

Understand the problem to be solved.
Identify constraints on solving the problem.
Define the input needed for problem solving
Decide on the expected output for the problem solution in reference to the given constraints
Describe a solution to the problem in consideration to these constraints.

Problem: Adding three numbers and displaying their sum
Constraints: Input numbers are digits only.
Input: Three numbers (e.g., num1, num2, num3)
Output: Sum of the three input numbers
Solution: Add the three numbers using the addition operator or a similar method.