What characterizes a procedural programming language?

A procedural programming language is characterized by following a specific set of steps to execute tasks. This means it relies heavily on the concept of procedures or routines, which are sequences of instructions that define how to perform a particular task. In procedural programming, the program is typically organized into small segments or functions that can be called upon when needed, allowing for structured and logical flow of execution. This step-by-step approach makes it easier for programmers to break down complex problems into manageable chunks.

The emphasis is on the algorithm, which is the series of operations described by the procedures, providing clarity in the coding process. This structured methodology is especially beneficial for tasks that require a logical sequence of operations, enhancing both readability and maintainability of the code.