An algorithm is a recipe or formula. There is nothing about an algorithm that requires it to be custom to the user. Merriam-Webster[1] has it as: a procedur

An algorithm is a recipe or formula. There is nothing about an algorithm that requires it to be custom to the user. Merriam-Webster[1] has it as: a procedure for solving a mathematical problem (as of finding the greatest common divisor) in a finite number of steps that frequently involves repetition of an operation broadly : a step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing some end "Hot" absolutely is a sorting algorithm. Whether or not you consider the top items in a sort to be recommended is a matter of opinion. [1] https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/algorithm https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/algorithm