What is the process of checking the validity of an algorithm using test data called?

The process of checking the validity of an algorithm using test data is known as Testing. This is a crucial step in the software development lifecycle, where the effectiveness of an algorithm is evaluated against predetermined criteria and expected outcomes. By applying specific test cases, developers can verify that an algorithm produces the correct results and behaves as expected under various scenarios.

Testing can include different methods, such as unit testing, integration testing, and system testing, each emphasizing various levels of the software structure. While desk checking involves reviewing the algorithm manually to find errors without actual execution, testing specifically focuses on actual execution with test data, allowing for the identification of discrepancies between expected results and actual output.

The concepts of code review and debugging also relate to software development but serve different purposes. Code review is primarily concerned with the examination of source code by others to ensure quality and adherence to standards, while debugging is the process of identifying and fixing defects or errors within the code after execution. Thus, testing is the most direct method to assess an algorithm's validity through the application of test data.