3.1 Lesson Outcomes

After completing this lesson, learners will be able to:

• Define algorithms in Java programming.
• Apply problem-solving techniques.
• Implement searching algorithms.
• Implement sorting algorithms.
• Create Java programs using algorithms.

3.2 Overview

An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure used to solve a problem or perform a task. Algorithms form the foundation of software development and are used to process data efficiently.

Algorithms are important in:

• software development,
• data processing,
• automation,
• artificial intelligence,
• and enterprise systems.

This lesson introduces learners to practical algorithm implementation in Java programming.

Understanding algorithms is important because efficient problem-solving improves software performance and design.

PA1701 — Define Algorithms

Algorithms are structured procedures used to solve problems.

Algorithm Characteristics

• Step-by-step instructions
• Logical sequence
• Clear input and output
• Finite execution

Java Example:

Step 1 — Accept number

Step 2 — Multiply number

Step 3 — Display result

Practical Activity

Learners must:

• define algorithms,
• identify algorithm steps,
• and explain algorithm flow.

PA1702 — Apply Problem-Solving Techniques

Programming problems are solved through logical analysis.

Problem-Solving Steps

1. Identify the problem
2. Plan the solution
3. Write the algorithm
4. Implement code
5. Test the solution

Practical Activity

Learners must:

• analyze problems,
• create logical steps,
• and implement simple solutions.

PA1703 — Implement Sequential Algorithms

Sequential algorithms execute instructions in order.

Java Example:

int a = 10;

int b = 5;

int total = a + b;

System.out.println(total);

Practical Activity

Learners must:

• create sequential algorithms,
• perform calculations,
• and display results.

PA1704 — Implement Selection Algorithms

Selection algorithms use conditional statements.

Java Example:

int marks = 60;

if (marks >= 50) {

System.out.println(“Pass”);

} else {

System.out.println(“Fail”);

}

Practical Activity

Learners must:

• create selection algorithms,
• apply conditions,
• and display decision outputs.

PA1705 — Implement Repetition Algorithms

Repetition algorithms use loops.

Java Example:

for (int i = 1; i <= 5; i++) {

System.out.println(i);

}

Practical Activity

Learners must:

• create repetition algorithms,
• use loops,
• and display repeated output.

PA1706 — Implement Linear Search Algorithm

Linear search checks values one-by-one.

Java Example:

int[] numbers = {10, 20, 30, 40};

int target = 30;

for (int num : numbers) {

if (num == target) {

System.out.println(“Found”);

}

}

Practical Activity

Learners must:

• create search algorithms,
• search arrays,
• and display search results.

PA1707 — Implement Sorting Algorithms

Sorting algorithms organize data.

Java Example:

int[] numbers = {4, 2, 1, 3};

Arrays.sort(numbers);

for (int num : numbers) {

System.out.println(num);

}

Practical Activity

Learners must:

• sort data,
• display sorted results,
• and compare outputs.

PA1708 — Create Complete Algorithm Program

Algorithms are used in practical Java applications.

Java Example:

import java.util.Arrays;

public class AlgorithmExample {

public static void main(String[] args) {

int[] numbers = {5, 2, 8, 1};

Arrays.sort(numbers);

for (int num : numbers) {

System.out.println(num);

}

}

}

Importance of Algorithms

Algorithms support:

• efficient problem-solving,
• structured programming,
• and optimized software development.

3.5 Key Notes / Summary

• Algorithms are step-by-step problem-solving procedures.
• Sequential algorithms execute instructions in order.
• Selection algorithms use conditions.
• Repetition algorithms use loops.
• Search algorithms locate values.
• Sorting algorithms organize data.
• Algorithms improve software efficiency and structure.