Top 6 Algorithm Problem Solving Techniques For Software Programmer
Have you really stop back to wonder “how does amazon works” and or “how do Alibaba” works?. The answer is Algorithm.
An algorithm is a sequence of instructions, typically to solve a class of problems or perform a computation. Algorithms are unambiguous specifications for performing calculations, data processing, automated reasoning, and other tasks.
Now, let’s get into it.
- Understand the problem
It is important that you have a proper understanding of the problem you want to solve, study it so well that you can explain it properly to others easily. If you don’t understand it you can’t solve it and the easiest way to prove you understood the problem is when you are sure you can explain it to someone else.
2. Solve the problem from the basics
This is another way of saying ‘solve the problem manually.’ Any code written has a foundation, and that is the basic process. That being said, solve the problem manually first, that way you know exactly what you want to automate, this will save you a lot of time wasted if you just start writing code like that all the way.
Work out the problem manually on a sheet a paper first.
3. Optimize your steps into smaller bits
See if you can make your process better, look for patterns and see if there’s anything you can generalize. if there is an easier way to do it or if there are some steps you can cut to simplify further. This step is very important, remember that is much easier to reconstruct your process in your head than it is in your code.
So, as not to get frustrated at the end that the code you took time to write technically has crashed. Reasons for the steps, it allows you;
- Keep a tap for the due process.
- Easily track errors before the initial coding.
- Save energy and utilize your time.
- Make a rough sketch of the final product.
4. Create a code-will
A code-will is a ‘would be’ pattern for the entire process. It is written as pseudocode with a detailed description of what the program must do, this will help you write every line of code needed in order to solve your problem.
If you write some pseudo-code, the process of writing your final code will be much easier since you only have to translate each line of pseudocode into actual codes.
Let’s think about the steps needed to write a function that returns a number’s squared value.
- Debug
This step really should continue throughout the process. Debugging throughout will help you catch any syntax errors or gaps in logic sooner rather than later. Take advantage of your Integrated Development Environment (IDE) and debugger. Whenever you encounter bugs, you can easily trace the code line-in-line-out to see if there was anything that did not go as expected.
Lastly, remember that even experienced developers are always practicing and learning. If you get helpful feedback, implement it. Redo a problem or do similar problems. Keep pushing yourself.
