In today’s fast-paced world of technology, algorithms play a key role. Often working behind the scenes, they determine what we see on social media, which products are recommended to us in online stores, and how quickly we reach our destination using navigation apps. Understanding algorithms is not only the foundation of conscious technology development and programming skills – it’s also part of being an aware digital citizen in the virtual world.

What is an algorithm?

Simply put, an algorithm is a set of precise instructions designed to solve a specific problem or complete a task. In programming, algorithms are fundamental – they ensure that applications run smoothly, respond to user needs, and deliver valuable results.

How do algorithms influence our decisions?

We interact with algorithms daily – often without even realizing it:

  • On social media, they decide which posts we see.
  • On streaming platforms, they suggest movies or podcasts we might enjoy.
  • In shopping apps, they recommend products tailored to our preferences.
  • In navigation tools, they point out the fastest route to our destination.

Algorithms analyze our behavior, clicks, and choices to deliver a personalized digital experience. As you read this article, you might recall moments when you received such suggestions – and reflect on whether they were accurate.

There are many types of algorithms, each serving a specific purpose. You don’t need to know them all at once, but it’s worth starting with the ones most commonly used – because those are the ones you’re likely to encounter most often.

Here are some basic types of algorithms:

  • Sorting algorithms – used to organize data based on specific criteria, such as arranging search results in the right order.
  • Search algorithms – help quickly find specific data in large databases.
  • Optimization algorithms – assist in making the best decisions, like choosing the fastest route in navigation apps.
  • Encryption algorithms – handle the encoding of information, allowing secure online payments and protecting private data from unauthorized access.

Algorithms in Artificial Intelligence

In the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI), algorithms are essential. They enable language models to recognize patterns, predict user behavior, translate languages, chat with us as bots, and even diagnose diseases based on medical images. This type of application is best left to specialists- it’s the “don’t try this at home” category ;). Algorithms in AI are more than just instruction sets. They’re dynamic mechanisms that adapt their behavior based on input data. This means AI systems not only perform tasks but also learn how to do them better over time.

Examples of popular algorithms used in AI systems:

  • Machine learning algorithms – learn from data and improve their performance over time (e.g., artificial neural networks).
  • Natural Language Processing (NLP) algorithms – allow computers to understand human language (chatbots, translators).
  • Recommendation algorithms – analyze user behavior to suggest personalized content.

Can algorithms be dangerous?

Sounds like clickbait? Maybe – but it’s still an important part of the conversation about algorithms and AI. It’s often said that a knife can be used to spread butter, but it can also be used for something far less safe. It’s up to humans to decide how a tool is used. The same goes for algorithms. They streamline many processes and are incredibly helpful. But to be fair, their use also carries certain risks:

  • They can lead to data breaches if not properly secured.
  • They’re prone to decision-making errors if based on incomplete or biased data.
  • They can reinforce information bubbles, shaping how we perceive the world.
  • They may encourage excessive app usage and impulsive shopping decisions.

That’s why understanding how they work and designing systems responsibly is so important.

Summary

Algorithms are present in many areas of our lives – from shopping apps to medical systems. Knowing how they work helps us better understand the world of technology and build it in a responsible and innovative way. For those starting out in programming, this is a future-proof skill – essential across many IT fields and key to using digital tools consciously. For society as a whole, algorithms simplify many everyday activities. And by understanding how they operate, we become more resilient to the potential downsides of their use.

You can read more about how to develop key technological competencies in our article Building key competencies in the world of technology.

Sources:
Programista Java. Algorytmy a prywatność – gdzie jest granica?
Praktyka Biznesu . Poznaj trzy przykładowe algorytmy z życia codziennego.
Programista Java. Czym są algorytmy i dlaczego są ważne w programowaniu.
KDE.edu.pl. Algorytmy – jak działają i jak wpływają na nasze życie.