CSI $131$ Computational Thinking

LAB $1-$ Problem solving, introducing repetition and decisions: Intuitive

Objectives:

a$)$ Describe the difference between heuristic and algorithmic solutions to problems.

b$)$ List $/$ describe the five steps to solving a problem that has an algorithmic solution.

$1.$ Problem Types: From the definition of algorithm we see that it involves a set of steps to get to the solution. This is possible with numeric problems like performing long division, calculating the trajectory of a baseball, or adding a column of numbers. These problems are said to have an algorithmic solution. Some problems cannot be solved through a sequence of steps. For example, determining whether an egg is $$over cooked,$$ deciding if a person is $$nice$,$ or whether to buy a certain stock. These problems have heuristic solutions. The solution is determined through $$trial and error$$ techniques, experience or intuition.