All About the Algorithm

Algorithm a procedure for solving a mathematical problem (as of finding the greatest common divisor) in a finite number of steps that frequently involves repetition of an operation

broadlya step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing some end

Merriam-Webster

This week, my mantra has been, “I’m all about the algorithm.” I am facing a number of big projects that are wrapping up in the next ten days or so, and all of them are demanding hours and hours of work from me.

When facing big projects, one of my preferred methods of attack is to recognize and perfect an algorithm. Virtually every big project can be broken down into smaller projects with steps you repeat. The more you can make these steps systematic, the more you say “After I finish E, I always do F,” the more efficient the small projects become, and the more effectively you finish the big projects.

For example, as I’ve been working on a 120+ video virtual choir, I discovered how to break it into a series of nine-video mini video projects. For each of those, I repeat the same six or eight steps nine times. Once I’ve got that algorithm in my fingers, I’m not slowing down the process anymore – I can make the videos as fast as the computer will let me.

But if I hadn’t paid attention to algorithms – if I tried to tackle the big project all at once, or if I approached each mini video project completely fresh, I would be hours further behind right now.

I have algorithms for baking, for writing music, for making tea, for recording my singers, for planning a rehearsal, for teaching a class, for leading a meeting. And with each new skill I develop, I seek to build algorithms first and foremost. Even an imperfect algorithm helps, and I can seek to continue improving it as I go.

I’m all about the algorithm.