1. problem-solving procedure: a logical step-by-step procedure for solving a mathematical problem in a finite number of steps, often involving repetition of the same basic operation
2. problem-solving computer program: a logical sequence of steps for solving a problem, often written out as a flow chart, that can be translated into a computer program
[Late 17th century. Alteration, after Greek arithmos "number," of algorism, via Old French and medieval Latin< Arabic al-Ḵwārizmī, name of the 9th century mathematician who introduced algorithms to the West]
