Computer programing and algorithms

Algorithms are step by step methods of solving problems. Computer repair miami use the process of reading in names previously described is an example of an algorithm, though a very simple one. Some are extremely complicated, and many vary their execution depending on input. Often algorithms take input and generate output, but not always. However, all algorithms have something in common, they all do something. Imagine a website like Google Maps, which has an algorithm to get directions from one point to another in either North America or Europe. It typically requires two inputs: a source and a destination. It also gives two outputs: the narrative directions to get from the source to the destination, and a map of the route.The directions produced are also an algorithm; they accomplish the task of getting from the source to the destination. Imagine getting the directions to your friend’s house shown on the map.

• 1. Start going south on River Road.
• 2. Turn left (east) on Main Street.
• 3. Take a right (south) on Ruby Lane.
• 4. Turn left (east) toward Algorithm Circle.
• 5. Continue until you come to 345 Algorithm Circle your friend’s house.

First notice that the directions are numbered; each step happens in sequential order. Additionally, it describes general steps like, “Turn left (east) on Main Street.” It does not say, “Turn on your left turn signal and wait for the light to turn green, and then turn left on Main Street.” That is not the point of an algorithm. An algorithm does not need to write out every single detail, but it needs to have all the important parts. Different algorithms may accomplish the same task, but some will do it much faster than others. We consider the algorithm just described for going to your friend’s house, which certainly is not the only route to her or his home. Instead of getting on Ruby Lane, you could have hopped on the expressway, gone to the airport, and then taken a cab from the airport to your friend’s house—but that would be extremely inefficient. Likewise, there may be a more efficient route to your friend’s house than the one de‐ scribed. Just because you have created an algorithm does not make it efficient, and being able to create efficient algorithms is one of the factors that distinguishes a good computer scientist. For example, imagine receiving the following set of directions to your friend’s house instead. Here we use a different algorithm that accomplishes the same task, and it does so slightly more efficiently. That is, fewer turns are involved. You now understand the core foundations of computer science, namely the use of algorithms to solve real-world problems. Ruby, as used throughout the remainder of the book, is a powerful, yet relatively easy to understand, programming language that can be used to implement these algorithms. It is, however, critical to remember that independent of the programming language used, without a good algorithm, your solution will be ineffective. The essence of computer science is problem solving. Computer science involves using the computer as a tool to model or solve various problems, from storing names in a database to finding efficient directions to a friend’s house.Once we have an algorithm, we can compare it to other algorithms and pick the best one for the job. Once the algorithm is done, we can write a program to implement it. When programming, it is important to understand that the computer is never wrong. It is merely following the directions you have given it.The following are basic steps for solving a computer science problem.The prevalent numerical form used in our computers is based on the radix 2, and is called binary. In the binary system, every binary digit, called a bit, has one of two possible values, 0 or 1. The number stored in the memory is thus composed from a string of bits, each having a value of zero or one. The meaning of the string is decided by the way it is used; it may be interpreted in many ways.