Algorithm
An algorithm is a step by step procedure or a set of rules to solve a problem
or perform a task. Algorithms are essential in computer science, mathematics,
and daily decision making.
1. Characteristics of an Algorithm
Finiteness: An algorithm must terminate after a finite number of steps.
Definiteness: Each step of the algorithm must be clear and
unambiguous.
Input: Algorithms take zero or more inputs.
Output: At least one output is produced after execution.
2. Types of Algorithms
Sorting Algorithms: Arranging data in a particular order (e.g., Bubble
Sort, Merge Sort, Quick Sort).
Searching Algorithms: Finding specific data within a dataset (e.g.,
Linear Search, Binary Search).
Divide and Conquer: Breaking a problem into smaller subproblems
(e.g., Merge Sort).
Dynamic Programming: Solving complex problems by breaking them
into simpler overlapping subproblems (e.g., Fibonacci sequence,
Knapsack Problem).
3. Complexity of Algorithms
Time Complexity: Measures the time taken by an algorithm as a
function of the input size.
Space Complexity: Measures the amount of memory space required.
Includes space for inputs, outputs, and temporary computations.
4. Data Structures and Algorithms
Algorithms often rely on data structures for optimal performance.
Arrays: Used in sorting and searching algorithms.
Linked Lists: Applied in traversal and manipulation algorithms.
5. Design Techniques for Algorithms
Brute Force: Try all possible solutions and select the best one.
Divide and Conquer: Divide the problem, solve each part, and combine
results.
Greedy Method: Solve by choosing the best available option at each
step.
Dynamic Programming: Solve recursively and store results for reuse.
Backtracking: Explore all possibilities by undoing the last step when
needed.
6. Common Algorithm Applications
Cryptography: Algorithms for encryption and decryption (e.g., RSA,
AES).
Machine Learning: Training models using optimization algorithms (e.g.,
Gradient Descent).
7. Algorithm Analysis
Best Case: The minimum time required for execution.
Worst Case: The maximum time required for execution.
Average Case: The expected time for various inputs.
8. Algorithm Testing and Optimization
Dry Run: Manually step through the algorithm with test inputs.
Unit Testing: Test small parts of the algorithm independently.
Profiling: Identify bottlenecks in the implementation.
Optimization: Reduce complexity by refactoring the algorithm.
9. Tools and Techniques for Learning Algorithms
Visualization Tools: Platforms like Visual go for graphical
understanding.
Coding Platforms: Practice on Leet Code, Hacker Rank, or Code forces.
Books: Introduction to Algorithms by Cormen (CLRS).
Languages: Practice using Python, C++, or Java.
Write a program in C to print sum of 6 number
Algorithm
1. Start
2. Declare six integer variables to store the numbers (e.g., num1,
num2, ..., num6) and one variable sum initialized to 0.
3. Prompt the user to input the first number and store it in num1.
4. Repeat step 3 for the remaining five numbers.
5. Calculate the sum of the six numbers using sum = num1 + num2
+ num3 + num4 + num5 + num6.
6. Display the sum.
7. End
Code
#include <stdio.h>
int main() {
// Declare variables for the numbers and the sum
int num1, num2, num3, num4, num5, num6, sum;
// Input numbers
printf("Enter the first number: ");
scanf("%d", &num1);
printf("Enter the second number: ");
scanf("%d", &num2);
printf("Enter the third number: ");
scanf("%d", &num3);
printf("Enter the fourth number: ");
scanf("%d", &num4);
printf("Enter the fifth number: ");
scanf("%d", &num5);
printf("Enter the sixth number: ");
scanf("%d", &num6);
// Calculate the sum
sum = num1 + num2 + num3 + num4 + num5 + num6;
// Display the sum
printf("The sum of the six numbers is: %d\n", sum);
return 0;
