What defines an algorithm?

An algorithm is fundamentally defined as a procedure or formula for solving a problem. It represents a step-by-step method that provides clear instructions on how to achieve a specific goal or complete a task. This definition emphasizes the logical sequence of actions that the algorithm follows, which can range from simple calculations to complex problem-solving strategies.

For instance, algorithms can be found in various applications, from sorting numbers to computing mathematical functions and even guiding decision-making processes in software. They are essential in computer science because they lay the groundwork for programming by providing a clear outline that a computer must follow to perform tasks efficiently and effectively.

While the other choices present important concepts related to programming and computer science, they do not encapsulate the essence of what an algorithm is. Visual representations or organizational methods contribute to understanding or structuring code but do not define the core principle of an algorithm, which is focused on the procedure or process intended to solve problems.