The upside of using an algorithm to solve a problem or make a decision that yields the best possible answer every time. This is useful in situations when accuracy is critical or where similar problems need to be frequently solved. In many cases, computer programs can be designed to speed up this process. Data then needs to be placed in the system so that the algorithm can be executed to come up with the correct solution.

Such step-by-step approaches can be useful in situations where each decision must be made following the same process and where accuracy is critical. Because the process follows a prescribed procedure, you can be sure that you will reach the correct answer each time. The downside of using an algorithm to solve the problem is that this process tends to be very time-consuming. So if you face a situation where a decision needs to be made very quickly, you might be better off using a different problem-solving strategy.

For example, a physician making a decision about how to treat a patient could use an algorithm approach, yet this would be very time-consuming and treatment needs to be implemented quickly. In this instance, the doctor would instead rely on their expertise and past experiences to very quickly choose what they feel is the right treatment approach.