Question

An algorithm is a set of step-by-step instructions. In order to make a computer do something, you need to write an algorithm for it to understand. For your first critical thinking activity, write an algorithm to do an everyday activity. It could be riding a bike, making a sandwich, playing a game, or anything else. Then, create a flowchart that correlates to your algorithm. Feel free to use Draw.io G to create your flowchart.

Answer 1

An algorithm is a set of specific instructions that aim to solve a problem and produce a consistent outcome, while a heuristic is a general strategy for quick decision making. Cognitive psychology studies cognition, including algorithms and heuristics. An everyday example of an algorithm could be the process of making a sandwich, which can be illustrated with a flowchart.

Step-by-step explanation:

Defining Algorithm and Heuristic

An algorithm is a problem-solving strategy characterized by a specific set of instructions that are designed to produce a consistent outcome each time they are executed. In contrast, a heuristic is a more general problem-solving approach, often used for making a quick decision. Common roadblocks to effective problem solving and decision making include cognitive biases such as anchoring bias and availability heuristic. A cognition study in the field of cognitive psychology would delve more deeply into these concepts.

Application of Algorithm in Everyday Activities

An example of an everyday activity that could be described by an algorithm is making a sandwich. The algorithm would include steps such as gathering the ingredients, placing the bread on a flat surface, adding condiments, arranging the fillings, and combining the sandwich halves. Creating a flowchart for this process would visually represent the algorithm, helping ensure the instructions are followed correctly. Such a flowchart could be created using a tool like Draw.io G.