Algorithm
An algorithm is a predetermined logic for performing calculations that lead to a particular goal. The term is common in mathematics (formulas) and computer science (computer programs). Algorithms are widely used to perform calculations involving various steps and factors that can lead to outcomes.
Algorithms, for example, are used by search engines to rank search results. When a query is entered, they look at known Web pages in their index and rate them on several factors. These include the degree of similarity of the content to the search query and the number of external links to the page. The score on the various factors is fed into the algorithm. The outcome of this "calculation" is used in determining the results and their ranking.
In search engines, the algorithm is crucial to the quality of search results. These algorithms are therefore very complex and are constantly being developed to maintain and improve this quality.
