An algorithm is a specific method for solving a defined considered problem.

The development and analysis of algorithms is fundamental in all areas of computer science: artificial intelligence, databases, graphics, networking, operating systems, security, and more. Developing algorithms is more than just programming. It requires an understanding of the options available to solve a perceived problem, including hardware, networking, programming languages, and performance limitations with a specific solution.

Computer scientists use complex mathematical mechanisms to predict how an algorithm will run and how much memory it will need before writing the code. Such forecasting is an important guide for programmers to implement and select algorithms for real-world applications.