Introducing Algorithms and Data Structures

Introducing Algorithms and Data Structure

Computer science is a field of study that solves a variety of problems by using computers. The problem to be solved could be as simple as performing the addition of two numbers, or it can be as complex as designing a robot capable of making decisions in a real-time environment. To solve a given problem by using computers, you need to design an algorithm. The nature of an algorithm often depends closely on the nature of the data on which the algorithm works. Therefore, the study of algorithms also involves the study of the data structures that the algorithms work on.

Explore the Role of Algorithms and Data Structures in Problem Solving

Problem solving is an essential part of every scientific discipline. In today’s world, computers are widely used to solve problems pertaining to various domains, such as banking, commerce, medicine, manufacturing, and transport. To solve a given problem by using a computer, you need to write a program. A program consists of two components, algorithm and data structure. Different algorithms can be used to solve the same problem. Similarly, different types of data structures can be used to represent a problem in a computer. To solve the problem in an efficient manner, you need to select a combination of algorithms and data structures that provide maximum efficiency

Role of Algorithms

The word, algorithm, is derived from the name of the Persian mathematician, Al Khwarizmi. An algorithm can be defined as a step-by-step procedure for solving a problem. It helps the user to get the correct result with a finite number of steps. Consider the
following step-by-step procedure to display the first 10 natural numbers:

1. Set the value of counter to 1. 
2. Display counter. 
3. Increment counter by 1.
4.  If counter <= 10, go to step 2.