A program is a set of instructions written in a programming language that tells a computer how to perform a specific task. It acts like a recipe for the computer, containing variables (data like numbers or text) and statements (directions) that guide the computer's operations

. Programs can range from simple calculations to complex applications such as web browsers, online banking, or artificial intelligence systems

. They are created by writing source code in languages like C++, Python, or Java, which is then translated into machine language that the computer's processor can execute

. When executed, the computer loads the program into memory and follows the instructions step-by-step to carry out the desired operations

. Programs are fundamental components of software, which may consist of multiple programs working together and typically include user interfaces and additional documentation

. In summary, a program is essentially a coded set of instructions that enables a computer to perform tasks, from the simplest to the most complex