Algorism vs. Algorithm — What's the Difference?

Algorism is the technique of performing basic arithmetic by writing numbers in place value form and applying a set of memorized rules and facts to the digits. One who practices algorism is known as an algorist.

In mathematics and computer science, an algorithm ( (listen)) is a finite sequence of well-defined, computer-implementable instructions, typically to solve a class of specific problems or to perform a computation. Algorithms are always unambiguous and are used as specifications for performing calculations, data processing, automated reasoning, and other tasks.

The Arabic system of numeration; the decimal system.

A finite set of unambiguous instructions that, given some set of initial conditions, can be performed in a prescribed sequence to achieve a certain goal and that has a recognizable set of end conditions.

Computation with Arabic figures.

(countable) A collection of ordered steps that solve a mathematical problem. A precise step-by-step plan for a computational procedure that possibly begins with an input value and yields an output value in a finite number of steps.

Obsolete spelling of algorithm}} {{qual

Calculation with Arabic numerals; algorism.

The art of calculating by nine figures and zero; computation with Arabic figures.

A precise rule (or set of rules) specifying how to solve some problem; a set of procedures guaranteed to find the solution to a problem.

The Arabic system of numeration.

A precise rule (or set of rules) specifying how to solve some problem

The art of calculating with any species of notation; as, the algorithms of fractions, proportions, surds, etc.

The Arabic (or decimal) system of numeration

Computation with Arabic figures