Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

backtracking

Noun

/ˈbækˌtrækɪŋ/

Definition

Backtracking is a problem-solving technique that involves returning to a previous position or step in order to explore different possibilities until a solution is found.

Examples

The team used backtracking to solve the complex puzzle more efficiently.
Backtracking allows for exploring all potential configurations in a maze.

Meaning

In the context of algorithms, backtracking is used to find solutions to constraint satisfaction problems by exploring potential options and reverting when a dead end is reached.