algorithmically

Algorithmically is an adverb describing an action performed by, or determined by, an algorithm. An algorithm is a finite sequence of well-defined steps that yields a result for a given input. When something is done algorithmically, it follows a reproducible, rule-based procedure rather than being based on intuition or ad hoc methods. The term derives from algorithm, itself from al-Khwarizmi, a 9th‑century Persian mathematician; the English noun algorithm entered in the 17th century, and algorithmically as an adverb followed later as English adopted the -ally suffix.

In computing and data science, algorithmically means produced by software or a computational process. Common uses include algorithmically generated content (text, music, or visuals), algorithmically optimized schedules, and algorithmically determined decisions in domains such as finance, search, and recommendation systems. The phrase is often contrasted with manual, heuristic, or empirical methods. Algorithmic approaches aim for determinism and repeatability, but they may still be subject to data bias or suboptimal choices if the algorithm or data are flawed.

Related concepts include algorithmic complexity, which measures time or space as a function of input size, algorithmic bias, which arises when algorithmic decisions reflect biased data, and algorithmic thinking, the practice of solving problems by breaking them into steps.

In everyday usage, algorithmically often signals a process that is automated, scalable, and testable, but not necessarily perfect or optimal.