What is an Algorithm
An algorithm is a set of clear steps that solve a problem or complete a task. Computers follow algorithms to know exactly what to do. People use algorithms in daily life too, like following a recipe.
🥪 Algorithm: Make a Sandwich
1 Take two bread slices
2 Spread butter on one slice
3 Add cheese or jam
4 Place second slice on top
✓ Sandwich ready!
Why Order Matters
An algorithm must follow the correct order. If you place the cheese before the bread, the sandwich does not work. Computers also need steps in the exact right order to work correctly.
Features of a Good Algorithm
- Clear – Each step says exactly what to do
- Ordered – Steps happen in a fixed sequence
- Finite – The algorithm must end after a number of steps
Flowcharts — Drawing an Algorithm
A flowchart shows an algorithm using shapes and arrows. Each box is one step, and arrows show the order to follow.
Start
↓
Wake up
↓
Brush teeth
↓
End
🔑 Key Terms
- Algorithm – A clear set of steps to solve a problem
- Flowchart – A picture made of shapes and arrows showing an algorithm
- Sequence – The correct order in which steps happen
✏️ Exercise
- What is an algorithm?
- Why does the order of steps matter?
- What is a flowchart?
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