TLDR: An algorithm is a set of instructions that tells a computer or a person how to solve a specific problem or perform a specific task. It's like a recipe that guides you step-by-step to achieve a desired outcome.

An algorithm is a sequence of steps or instructions that are used to solve a problem or perform a task. It can be thought of as a set of rules that guide the process of solving a problem. Algorithms are used in various fields, including mathematics and computer science, to solve complex problems and perform calculations.

In simple terms, an algorithm is like a recipe that tells you how to cook a meal. It provides a series of steps that need to be followed in a specific order to achieve the desired result. Similarly, an algorithm provides a set of instructions that need to be executed in a specific order to solve a problem or perform a task.

Algorithms can be expressed in different ways, such as natural language, pseudocode, flowcharts, or programming languages. They can be implemented in computer programs or executed manually by following the instructions.

One example of an algorithm is Euclid's algorithm, which is used to find the greatest common divisor of two numbers. It involves a series of steps that repeatedly subtract one number from another until the remainder is zero. This algorithm has been used for centuries to solve mathematical problems.

In summary, an algorithm is a set of instructions that guide the process of solving a problem or performing a task. It can be thought of as a recipe or a set of rules that need to be followed in a specific order. Algorithms are used in various fields to solve complex problems and perform calculations.