Title: What is an Algorithm?
Course: CPS 120: Introduction to Computer Science ~ Master (Aug/2015) OLD > Section: Learning Units

Characteristics of an Algorithm:

- It is a step-by-step approach for performing a task, or solving a problem, usually using a computer.
- It is not written in a programming language but can typically be translated into one fairly easily.
- It may already be defined and ready to use in a computer program. For example, finding the least common multiple of two numbers.
- It may need to be defined because it is unique to the computer program at hand.
- A software application typically uses one or more algorithms.

Activities:

- Watch the What's an algorithm? video (4:58 minutes).