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Algorithm 1 Introduction

The document provides an overview of algorithms, defining them as step-by-step procedures for problem-solving with specified inputs and outputs. It includes examples, properties, and methods for expressing algorithms such as pseudo codes and flowcharts. Additionally, it outlines various types of algorithms and includes class activities and assignments for practical application.

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6 views4 pages

Algorithm 1 Introduction

The document provides an overview of algorithms, defining them as step-by-step procedures for problem-solving with specified inputs and outputs. It includes examples, properties, and methods for expressing algorithms such as pseudo codes and flowcharts. Additionally, it outlines various types of algorithms and includes class activities and assignments for practical application.

Uploaded by

gl2420
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

1 | Page

INFORMATICS OLYMPIAD TRAINING


TOPIC: ALGORITHM 1
Contents:
● Meaning of algorithm
● Examples of an algorithm
● Properties of an algorithm
● Expressing an algorithm
o Pseudo codes
o Flowcharting
● Types of algorithm

Meaning of algorithm
An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure to solve a problem. It is a finite number of
steps which if followed will enable a particular task to be accomplished.

Examples of an algorithm
● An algorithm that adds two numbers
● An algorithm that searches for a specific key in a sorted or unsorted data/ list.
CLASS ACTIVITY:
Write an algorithm that calculates the sum of two numbers, a and b

Properties of an algorithm
The Properties of Algorithms
● Input specified
● Output specified
● Definiteness
● Effectiveness
● Finiteness

Expressing an algorithm
An algorithm is expressed using
o Pseudo codes
2 | Page

o Flowcharting

Pseudo codes: It is a description of the steps in an algorithm using a mix of conventions of


programming languages with informal, usually self-explanatory, notation of actions and conditions.
An example is given below:

Step 1 Start
2 Declare the variables, x, y d
3 Enter the values of x and y
3a If x ≥ y then calculate the difference, d = x – y
3b else calculate the difference, d = y - x
4 Print the positive difference, d
5 End

The algorithm above calculates and prints the positive difference between two numbers

Flowcharting: A flowchart is a diagram that depicts a process, system or computer algorithm. It


is a pictorial representation of an algorithm.
CLASS ACTIVITY:
Draw a flowchart to implement the algorithm above (an algorithm that calculates the positive
difference between two numbers, x and y)

Flowchart symbols
Symbol Use/function
Start/Stop

Input/ Output

Process e.g. calculate

Connector or link

Decision e.g. Yes/No


3 | Page

Connector or Link

Storage

A flowchart that calculates and prints the positive difference between two numbers, x and y)

Start

Enter the numbers x, y

Is Yes
X y?

No
Calculate d = x - y
Calculate d = y - x

Print the difference, d

Stop
4 | Page

Types of algorithm
1. Brute Force Algorithm
2. Searching algorithm
3. Sorting Algorithm
4. Recursive Algorithm
5. Randomized Algorithm
6. Pram Algorithm.

ASSIGNMENT:
1. Write an algorithm that calculates the mean of two numbers
2. Draw a flowchart for the task in question 1.
3. Write an algorithm that calculates the value of y for

4. Draw a flowchart to solve the above task in question 3.

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