This research field brings together aspects of theoretical and practical computer science. Typically it concerns the analysis of existing methods, or the development of new ones, for solving a problem. Primary criteria are the accuracy of the results, complexity, and efficiency optimization with respect to runtime or space requirements. Datastructures and probability theory play a central role here.

This area is represented by research groups in the Department of Computer Science, the Cluster of Excellence MMCI and the Max Planck Institute for Informatics.