Before delving into the best programming language options for learning algorithms, the first thing to get a good understanding of is what exactly algorithms are. The basic definition of an algorithm is a data structure, used as a method to do something and solve a problem.
Keeping in mind that algorithms and functions are two totally different things, we can begin taking a look at the ways in which we can create and use algorithm.
Programming Languages, Math and Algorithm
Having a good understanding of algorithms math is essential if you’re trying to improve how you write algorithms. The same is true if you’re trying to write unbreakable algorithms, which are pieces of code comprised of mathematics that cannot function to solve a problem without the necessary parts.
As a basic example, if we take a + b = 50, and assume that in this case a is 30. When we know this piece of the code, the algorithm becomes easily breakable. But, when we don’t know the value of a, there is still a chance to crack the algorithm through something known as brute force, which essentially is to work through every possible combination until you discover the one that works. Although there can be limitations to the number of attempts being made to crack an algorithm, there are always work-arounds, making even the toughest one possible to break if you’re persistent and focused enough.
Is There Such Thing as an Unbreakable Algorithm?
The question then becomes, if it is even possible to create an unbreakable algorithm or if this concept is just a myth. Surprisingly, the answer is actually both.
Leaving behind the previous example, instead we can look at something more complex, such as a + b + c + d + e + f = (-23).
Because the answer is negative, there can be any combination of positive and negative numbers that can result in this answer. An algorithm that’s well written can take several months to crack on a computer. But, according to mathematics, the idea that there are algorithms that cannot be cracked is simply a myth.
Best Languages to Write Algorithms
Although there is no specific language that’s named as the official best to write algorithms, there are those that are far superior. Functional languages are better for calculations and mathematics than object-oriented languages, but there are a few which are decent enough to write algorithms.
Python and Ruby
High-level languages are easier to work with because, unlike low-level language, these are much easier for reading. Even a beginner would be able to quickly understand the syntax without assistance.
These languages are written dynamically, and data structures can be built upon data structures. One problem that’s often seen with these is that, although they’re easier to start with, when programmers begin running tests, they often encounter errors which weren’t seen previously.
C
Here is a language that’s the complete opposite of the last one listed. It’s actually a high-level language, but is considered by many to be a low-level language because of the way it’s coded.
Actually, if you’re able to learn C quite well, you’ll find it easy to move to any other similar type of language.
Java
Java language is actually an extremely strict language, which is often criticized for being such. Unlike Python, rather than being dynamic, it’s a statically typed language.
It’s also got garbage collection, meaning it will display errors being made while you’re putting together the algorithm.
C# and C++
Very much like Java, C# language written in the same manner, but with the added abilities of modern languages. The much more complex C++ is preferred by some, but is typically considered unnecessarily complicated. It’s complexity, however, is the reason why many prefer it, since when you’re able to understand and write with it, others will have that much harder of a time cracking your algorithms.
C# seems to be the frontrunner when it comes to having the capabilities of modern languages, along with the ease of understanding and writing. But, if you’re just beginning with learning algorithms, there are very simple languages you may want to delve into first, before testing yourself with higher-level languages.
AUTHOR BIO
As both a writer and editor at Do My Assignment, Aimee Laurence explains differences in programming languages.