The best way to measure the goodness of an algorithm is
A) to write a computer program that uses the algorithm and time its execution
B) to write a computer program that uses the algorithm and run it on the hardest and largest inputs
C) to look at its worst case and average case complexity functions
D) to look at the sum of its execution time and the space it uses

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The worst case and average case complexity functions provide a mathematical description of the algorithm's efficiency in terms of time and space complexity. This is a more objective way of measuring goodness as opposed to measuring execution time or space used on specific inputs, which can vary greatly based on the hardware and software environment.

The Best Way to Measure the Goodness of an Algorithm