AI Foundations
Algorithm
A defined set of steps or rules used to solve a problem or perform a computation.
Example
As given
- C
- A
- B
In order
- A
- B
- C
A defined sequence of comparisons
A sorting program follows a defined sequence of comparisons to put names in alphabetical order.
Why it matters
It makes a procedure repeatable, so people do not have to work out every step afresh.
You'll hear it
“The algorithm decides which messages appear first.”
Can you control it?
Set by the team
The people building or running the AI choose this setup. An everyday user generally needs their help to change how this part works.
Common questions
- Is every algorithm AI?
- No. Many algorithms follow fixed rules and do not use AI or machine learning.
- Can a correct procedure still produce a bad result?
- Yes. It can follow its steps correctly while using wrong information or pursuing an unsuitable goal.
- Can an algorithm be biased?
- Yes. Its rules, goals, and data can produce uneven or harmful results, even without machine learning.