How do you communicate algorithms effectively?

1 Use pseudocode

One of the most common ways to communicate algorithms is to use pseudocode, which is a simplified and informal notation that describes the steps of an algorithm without using any specific programming language or syntax. Pseudocode can help you focus on the main logic and structure of your algorithm, without getting distracted by the details and conventions of a particular language. Pseudocode can also make your algorithm more understandable and accessible to a wider audience, especially if they are not familiar with the language you are using. However, pseudocode also has some drawbacks, such as being less precise and consistent than actual code, and requiring some interpretation and adaptation to translate it into executable code. Therefore, you should use pseudocode with caution and clarity, and follow some basic rules, such as using consistent indentation, keywords, and symbols, defining your variables and data structures, and commenting your code.

2 Use diagrams

Another way to communicate algorithms is to use diagrams, which are visual representations that can illustrate the flow, components, and relationships of your algorithm. Diagrams can help you convey the big picture and the key features of your algorithm, as well as highlight the inputs, outputs, and intermediate steps. Diagrams can also make your algorithm more appealing and engaging, especially for visual learners and thinkers. However, diagrams also have some limitations, such as being less detailed and accurate than code, and requiring some standardization and explanation to avoid ambiguity and misinterpretation. Therefore, you should use diagrams with complementarity and simplicity, and follow some basic guidelines, such as using appropriate shapes, colors, and labels, aligning and spacing your elements, and adding legends and captions.

3 Use examples

A third way to communicate algorithms is to use examples, which are concrete and specific cases that can demonstrate how your algorithm works and what results it produces. Examples can help you verify and validate your algorithm, as well as show its usefulness and relevance for a given problem or situation. Examples can also make your algorithm more relatable and memorable, especially for practical and experiential learners and thinkers. However, examples also have some challenges, such as being too simple or too complex, or not covering all the possible scenarios and edge cases. Therefore, you should use examples with balance and diversity, and follow some basic principles, such as choosing relevant and realistic examples, testing your algorithm with different inputs and outputs, and explaining your assumptions and expectations.

4 Use metrics

A fourth way to communicate algorithms is to use metrics, which are quantitative and objective measures that can evaluate the performance and quality of your algorithm. Metrics can help you compare and contrast your algorithm with other alternatives, as well as show its strengths and weaknesses for a given goal or criterion. Metrics can also make your algorithm more credible and convincing, especially for analytical and rational learners and thinkers. However, metrics also have some pitfalls, such as being too abstract or too technical, or not reflecting the actual user experience and satisfaction. Therefore, you should use metrics with context and clarity, and follow some basic standards, such as choosing relevant and meaningful metrics, calculating and presenting your metrics accurately and transparently, and interpreting and explaining your metrics with insights and recommendations.

5 Use feedback

A fifth way to communicate algorithms is to use feedback, which is the process of receiving and giving constructive and respectful comments and suggestions about your algorithm. Feedback can help you improve and refine your algorithm, as well as learn from your mistakes and successes. Feedback can also make your algorithm more collaborative and adaptable, especially for social and reflective learners and thinkers. However, feedback also has some difficulties, such as being too vague or too harsh, or not being aligned with your goals and expectations. Therefore, you should use feedback with openness and humility, and follow some basic etiquette, such as asking for and offering feedback politely and timely, listening to and acknowledging feedback attentively and gratefully, and acting on and following up on feedback appropriately and responsibly.

6 Use stories

A sixth way to communicate algorithms is to use stories, which are narrative and emotional ways of telling how your algorithm came to be, what problem it solves, and what impact it has. Stories can help you connect and engage with your audience, as well as show your passion and purpose for your algorithm. Stories can also make your algorithm more human and inspiring, especially for creative and intuitive learners and thinkers. However, stories also have some risks, such as being too long or too short, or not being relevant or credible. Therefore, you should use stories with purpose and authenticity, and follow some basic elements, such as having a clear beginning, middle, and end, introducing your characters, setting, and conflict, and delivering your message, resolution, and call to action.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?