In computer science, the concept of algorithms is considered basic. It is this method that is common in programming and modeling. In order to understand the structure of instructions, it is necessary to know their properties and what they are used for. In the article, we describe the methods of writing algorithms in computer science, their options for creating, and also try to figure out why they are so important for programming.
General information
Algorithms are considered an object of study for a discipline that is closely intertwined with mathematics and computer science. Moreover, these recording methods are adjacent to a science such as logic. These instructions allow you to develop methods for implementing tasks, but in practice also help to work with information technology. Thus, algorithmization acts as a set of certain techniques, which are capable of using special skills to function with language tools.
The word "algorithm" itself comes from the Latin form named after the mathematician of the 9th century al-Khorezmi. He became the first who was able to compose the features of working with arithmetic operations. Initially, the instructions were the usual rules for doing addition, subtraction, multiplication, division. Now the algorithm is a definite mode of action, which, with the help of a set number of steps, leads to a complete solution of the problem.
Algorithm Properties
The algorithm should be designed in such a way that the user or other executing device fully understands it. All steps should be understood clearly, only in this case, following all the commands, you can get an effective result. Therefore, certain requirements are introduced on the algorithms and their recording. Their essence is that all actions should be interpreted correctly. These requirements are called properties.
Property No. 1
The initial requirement for the algorithm is that each step must be performed separately and sequentially. Such a record should be completely divided into blocks, be an ordered collection of instructions, commands and operators. The instruction should form a discrete structure. This is done so that each individual step is performed strictly after the previous one is completed. This property is called discreteness. Typically, in a letter, all steps are recorded using continuous numbering, but this requirement is not necessary.
Property No. 2
All the algorithms that are used in practice are focused on a particular artist. That is why the instruction should be made specifically for him. Accordingly, you need to roughly imagine which commands will be understandable to those for whom the algorithm is written, and which are ambiguous for it. Each performer (it can be a person, a computer and other equipment) has its own command system. Accordingly, it is necessary to use only those operators that are in its memory. This property is called comprehensibility.
Property No. 3
Each step should be completely understandable, not perceived ambiguously. Thus, each of the records of the algorithm must be correctly understood by any executor. Accordingly, after each of them is completed and the prescribed instructions are followed by various techniques, the result should not change. This paragraph refers to the fact that writing an algorithm is the most accurate, clear, complete and fully detailed step. This is done so that the contractor is not required to make any decisions. He must correctly understand what is required of him. Also, when compiling the algorithm, you need to think through everything in such a way that the performer understands the sequence of steps. Everything should be very clear. This property is called determinism.
Types of algorithms by recording method
How can I write algorithms? There are the most popular ways. We are talking about verbal, formal-verbal, flowchart, diagram methods. And also about pseudo-code and programming languages. Consider some of the types of recording algorithms.
Verbal way
The verbal way is the most understandable for the average person. Thanks to the algorithm written in this form, every artist can understand each step. This method is set using natural language in any form.
Formal verbal way
This is a form of recording algorithms that is an instruction. It necessarily includes mathematical symbols. There is a verbal explanation. This allows you to increase the range of tasks.
Flowcharts
The flowchart is a graphical representation of the algorithm. It should be noted that their decryption is the same for everyone. Each stage of the described process has its own figure or block, the name of the graphic image explains what the performer needs to do.
Programming languages
A more difficult form of writing algorithms for many people is to write instructions in the form of a program. In this case, programming languages are used. In order to compose an algorithm on one of them, you need to know the appropriate teams and have skills.
Pseudo code
Pseudocode is a system of various notations that are necessary for a single record of all algorithms. It takes an intermediate place between such methods as natural and formal. It is as close as possible to the first, however, in this method of writing algorithms, various constructions and mathematical notation can be used. It is not customary to introduce syntactic rules into such a form of an instruction that are inherent in formal recording methods. This makes it possible to simplify its design. Pseudo-code often uses small constructs that relate to formal languages. This makes it possible to switch from writing on the described method to other options for writing instructions. Moreover, in this method of recording algorithms, there are special service words, the meaning of which is used in clearly defined situations.