Summary of Algorithms to Live By: by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths | Includes Analysis

by Instaread Summaries

  Algorithms to Live By by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths is an immersive look at the history and development of several algorithms used to solve computer science problems. It also considers potential applications of algorithms in human life including memory storage and network communication. One such computer science problem is the optimal stopping problem, the mathematical puzzle for determining how long to review options and gather data before settling on the best choice available. The algorithm, based on statistical analysis, shows that there is an optimal place or time to stop researching options or solutions to a problem and instead commit to the next option that’s just as good as those already considered. Similarly, the mathematical way to decide whether to try something new or stick with the familiar choice is expressed by the Gittins Index score of any given alternative. It values a complete unknown more highly than a…       ·                      Overview of the Book ·                      Important People ·                      Key Takeaways ·                      Analysis of Key Takeaways   With Instaread, you can get the key takeaways, summary and analysis of a book in 15 minutes. We read every chapter, identify the key takeaways and analyze them for your convenience.  Visit our website at instaread.co.

Genres: Nonfiction

32 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 6, 2016

About the author

With Instaread, you can get the summary and analysis of a book in 15 minutes. We read every chapter, summarize and analyze it for your convenience.

Reviews

[Charles Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Algorithms to Live By, Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths examine the history and development of algorithms used to solve computer science problems, and their application to human activity. They look especially at memory storage and network communications, using the example of algorithm development to show how these techniques can be used in our decision making processes.
Summary of Algorithms to Live By by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths from Instaread is a comprehensive analysis that discusses the main themes, complete with examples from everyday life where algorithms can be used to maximize outcomes.
This brief summary can be read in about 15 minutes, and while it’s not necessary to be proficient in the language of computer programming to find useful nuggets, a degree of computer literacy doesn’t hurt.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.