What is a greedy algorithm?

Greedy Algorithms Questions Medium



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What is a greedy algorithm?

A greedy algorithm is a problem-solving approach that makes locally optimal choices at each step with the aim of finding a global optimum solution. It follows the principle of making the best possible choice at each stage without considering the overall consequences or future steps. In other words, a greedy algorithm makes decisions based solely on the current information available, without revisiting or undoing previous choices.

The key characteristic of a greedy algorithm is its greedy property, which means that it always selects the option that appears to be the best at the current moment, without considering the potential impact on future steps. This can lead to efficient and simple solutions for certain problems.

However, it is important to note that not all problems can be solved optimally using a greedy algorithm. Greedy algorithms are typically used for optimization problems where a locally optimal choice leads to a globally optimal solution. They are often employed in problems involving scheduling, optimization, and resource allocation.

Overall, a greedy algorithm is a problem-solving strategy that focuses on making the best possible choice at each step, based on the current information available, in order to find an approximate or optimal solution to a given problem.