What Algorithm Meaning, Applications & Example
A step-by-step procedure for solving problems.
What is an Algorithm?
An algorithm is a structured set of rules or steps a computer follows to complete a specific task or solve a problem. In AI, algorithms are the instructions that enable machines to process data, recognize patterns, make predictions, and improve over time.
Types of Algorithms in AI
- Supervised Learning Algorithms: Use labeled data to predict or classify new data points.
- Unsupervised Learning Algorithms: Discover patterns or groupings in unlabeled data.
- Reinforcement Learning Algorithms: Learn by interacting with an environment, adjusting actions based on rewards and penalties.
Applications of Algorithms in AI
- Data Processing: Algorithms help filter, clean, and transform data for further analysis.
- Pattern Recognition: Used in tasks like image and speech recognition to identify meaningful patterns.
- Decision-Making: Power recommendation engines, autonomous vehicles, and predictive analytics.
Example of an Algorithm
A simple yet powerful example is the Linear Regression algorithm, which predicts a target variable by establishing a linear relationship with input features.
It is often used in statistical analysis and basic predictive modeling .