chapter 1

什么是算法:
  Informally, an algorithm is any well-defined computational procedure that takes some value,
or set of values, as input and produces some value, or set of values, as output. An algorithm is
thus a sequence of computational steps that transform the input into the output.

We can also view an algorithm as a tool for solving a well-specified computational problem.
The statement of the problem specifies in general terms the desired input/output relationship.
The algorithm describes a specific computational procedure for achieving that input/output
relationship.

算法意义:
 Having a solid base of algorithmic knowledge and technique is one characteristic that
separates the truly skilled programmers from the novices. With modern computing
technology, you can accomplish some tasks without knowing much about algorithms, but
with a good background in algorithms, you can do much, much more.