What defines a program in the context of coding?

A program, in the context of coding, refers to an algorithm that has been translated into a format that can be executed by a computer. This typically involves writing code in a programming language, which the machine can understand and process. A program is designed to perform specific tasks or solve particular problems as defined by the algorithm.

The essence of a program lies in its ability to be run by a computer system, meaning it is not just a theoretical construct or a manual set of instructions. Instead, it represents a concrete implementation that allows the algorithm to be put into action—computers need instructions they can execute automatically, which is precisely what a program provides. The ability to run the program without human intervention is a key aspect that differentiates it from other options presented in the question.

In contrast, an outline of coding practices, while useful in development, does not constitute a program since it lacks the executable component. Similarly, a set of instructions executed manually does not represent a program, as it implies a human performing the tasks rather than a machine processing the instructions autonomously. Lastly, a collection of libraries is a set of pre-written code that can aid in development but does not itself define a program. Libraries provide reusable functions and tools, but the actual