Understanding Algorithms: It’s Easier Than You Think!

Algorithm! Algorithm! Algorithm!

This word is used everywhere, spoken in tech discussions, in our classrooms, and even casually mentioned by people who really do not know what it means. But what is an algorithm, really ?

From search engines to social media, from watching YouTube to scrolling Instagram/Facebook feeds, algorithms are shaping the most part of our daily experience. They decide what we see, suggest what we might like, and even guide artificial intelligence. Yet, many people use the term ‘algorithm’ without actually knowing what it means. The good news is that understanding algorithms doesn’t require being a coder or tech professional.

Algorithms are not like a secret treasure only reserved for engineers and scientists. In fact, they are a key part of our daily routine. Algorithms are like recipes for us. Making tea or choosing clothes to wear, these are all recipes we follow without thinking about it. In simple words, an algorithm is a series of steps we follow to complete a task or to solve a problem. That’s it. It’s not rocket science. We can take it as simple as making tea. First, we boil water. Then, we add tea leaves, let it boil and brew, and finally, pour it into a cup. Every action follows a sequence, leading to a final result. This is an example of a structured process, just like how algorithms help in solving problems step-by-step.

Computers also follow the same logic. Not all but many algorithms can be understood using the IPO Cycle: Input, Process, and Output. It's actually not a technological theory but something that we do frequently without even realizing it. For example, in the morning, whenever we want to get dressed first, we check the weather in relation to how we should dress, and that is the input into the process. Then, we decide what to wear based on the information just processed. Finally, we go out properly dressed. In this case, it seems like the normal way in which a computer process information.

But we do not always give correct input. So, we must know what happens when the input is wrong. The GIGO principle (Garbage In, Garbage Out) explains this: if the input is incorrect the output will be incorrect too. It simply says if the input data is faulty, the output will be faulty too. For a clearer understanding, we can just think of following a recipe but accidentally adding 2-3 teaspoons of salt instead of ½ teaspoon. The food is ruined, not because the recipe was bad, but because the input was incorrect. The same thing applies to AI and search engines, which means bad data leads to bad results. Whether in decision-making or problem-solving, the quality of our input always determines the outcome.

Learning about algorithms also helps us develop logical thinking, which benefits our daily decision-making. Now, whether we realize it or not, algorithms play a role in shaping our choices and habits. So, from today if someone speaks about algorithms either knowingly or unknowingly, take a moment to reflect on what it truly means. In conclusion, algorithms are hidden yet powerful processes that influence both our digital and real life. And if we accept it or not, we all follow algorithms every day.

Author:

Lovedev Sharma
Undergraduate Student
BA (English Studies) & B.Ed. (TESOL)
Kathmandu University, School of Education

📧 Email: l@lovedev.com.np | lovedevsharma477@gmail.com
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