algorithm - does anyone know what this is?

I am no mathematician, but below is what I think defines and algorhythm.

It is using a set pattern to fit together a number of different facts and/or numbers and/or operations to reach a conclusion. The same pattern is applied automatically to a whole load of similar examples, so as to give answers that can be compared fairly with one another, without involving human bias.

Different algorhythms can be designed for different purposes.

In its simplest terms, an algorithm is a series of processes. It starts with data, processes it, and produces a result. An algorithm is value-neutral.

So:
Think of a number
Add three
Multiply the total by six
Result = a number

...is an algorithm.

So is a recipe.
Take an amount of flour
Add half the same amount of fat
Add a pinch of salt
Rub fat into flour and salt
Add an eighth the amount of cold water
Mix all together and roll out
Line a flan dish with the rolled mixture
Bake in a hot oven for 10 minutes.
Result = pastry case

It's a way of getting a sum total so far as I can understand. In maths anyway.

You might need a degree in Maths to understand it! I've given up!

www.dictionary.com/browse/algorithm

I don't know if the definitions really help all those of us who are not mathematicians!