What's an algorithm? - David J. Malan
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An
algorithm is a method of solving problems both big and
small. Though computers run algorithms constantly, humans can also solve
problems with algorithms. David J. Malan explains how algorithms can be
used in seemingly simple situations and also complex ones.
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In mathematics and computer science, an algorithm is a step-by-step procedure for calculations. Algorithms are used for calculation, data processing, and automated reasoning.
How, exactly, does online dating work? In this perfect-for-Valentine’s-Day TED-Ed lesson, OKCupid co-founder Christian Rudder walks you through how the dating website does its matching — by using a carefully-honed algorithm to create a compatibility rating for two potential daters. In this fascinating video, Rudder shares how the site lets daters decide which factors are most important to them — and then crunches the numbers behind the scenes. Here's a blog post from TED.com.

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