Serial Execution
Serial execution is a programming concept where tasks or operations are performed one after another in a strict, sequential order, with each task completing before the next begins. It contrasts with parallel or concurrent execution, where multiple tasks can overlap or run simultaneously. This approach is fundamental in computing for ensuring predictable, deterministic behavior in processes that depend on ordered steps.
Developers should use serial execution when tasks have dependencies that require completion in a specific sequence, such as data processing pipelines, file I/O operations, or state updates in single-threaded applications. It is essential for maintaining data integrity and avoiding race conditions in scenarios where concurrent access could lead to inconsistencies, making it a core principle in algorithm design and system reliability.