What Is an Algorithm?

We’ve often heard the word algorithm used with social media or video streaming.

Much like any programming code, algorithms aren’t inherently good or bad.

They’re strictly operating on the instructions they’ve been given.

What Makes Something an Algorithm?

One of the most significant indicators of algorithmic function is automation.

However, automated software isnt necessarily an algorithm.

How Do Algorithms Work?

And those decisions can involve categorization, restriction, removal, tiering, promotion, etc.

Algorithms can also work conditionally, performing something akin to IF-THEN (i.e.

if X =Y, do Z) functions like you might find in basic programming or evenuse in Excel.

Many of us have created simple algorithms when sorting a spreadsheet with multiple columns.

Another algorithm all of us have encountered is an internet search.

Encryption algorithms are commonly used in the background on our smartphones to protect our data.

An algorithm many of us have used is when creating a sorting solution in a spreadsheet.

So you’d first sorta by the zip code column and then by size of the order.

If we’re talking about social media and using search engines, most definitely yes.