Computer science is the study of the way computers work and the development of algorithms to solve problems. An algorithm is a step-by-step mathematical procedure. Computer programs are algorithms that are carried out by a computer’s electronic circuits. Computer scientists create algorithms for organizing and finding computer data. They also create algorithms that make computers faster and easier to use. Computer scientists work to ensure that programs are efficient, without unnecessary steps that waste computing time. They also help solve problems in other fields, such as biology, geology, economics, and the arts.
For a computer to process a practical, real-world problem, the problem must first be modeled (represented) mathematically. Computer scientists must use creativity and critical reasoning in modeling problems and in designing algorithms to solve them. They also must be able to show that their solutions are correct.
Computer science includes many specialized fields. Some computer scientists help design programs that computer users work with every day. For example, they may work to improve computer graphics, information management, or operating systems. An operating system is the master control program for a computer or computerized device. Other computer scientists specialize in artificial intelligence or the interaction between humans and computers. Programming language theory involves the study of computer languages, in which algorithms are written. Automata theory studies the abstract logical structures and mathematical patterns that govern computing more generally.
