What is a systematic set of instructions for accomplishing a task known as?

A systematic set of instructions for accomplishing a task is known as an algorithm. An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure that provides the necessary instructions to perform a specific task or solve a problem. This concept is fundamental in computer science, where algorithms are designed to process inputs and produce outputs effectively.

Algorithms can vary in complexity and can be expressed in various forms, including natural language, pseudo-code, and programming languages. Their systematic nature ensures that they can be repeated and followed accurately to obtain consistent results.

Understanding algorithms is crucial because they form the backbone of programming and computational logic, allowing computers to execute complex tasks efficiently. In contrast, a function refers to a block of code that performs a specific task and may use algorithms within its definition, whereas a procedure can refer to a set of instructions in a broader context, and a data structure is a way to organize and store data in a computer.