A genetic algorithm solves optimization problems by creating a population or group of possible solutions to the problem. The individuals in this population will carry chromosomes that are the values of variables of the problem.

The genetic algorithm actually solves your problem by allowing the less fit individuals in the population to die (peacefully) and selectively breeding the most fit individuals (the ones that solve the problem best). This process is called selection, as in selection of the fittest. The genetic algorithm will take two fit individuals and mate them (a process called crossover). The offspring of the mated pair will receive some of the characteristics of the mother, and some of the father.

In nature, offspring often have some slight abnormalities, called mutations. Usually these mutations are disabling and inhibit the ability of the children to survive, but once in a while they improve the fitness of the individual (like toes stuck together in a web-like fashion). The genetic algorithm similarly occasionally causes mutations in its populations by randomly changing the value of a variable.

After the genetic algorithm mates fit individuals and mutates some, the population undergoes a generation change. The population will then consist of offspring plus a few of the older individuals, which the genetic algorithm allows to survive to the next generation because they are the most fit in the population, and we will want to keep them breeding. These most fit individuals are called elite individuals.

After dozens or even hundreds of “generations”, a population eventually emerges wherein the individuals will solve the problem very well. In fact, the most fit (elite) individual will be an optimum or close to optimum solution.

The processes of selection, crossover, and mutation are called genetic operators.

Topics of Interest:

What are Genetic Algorithms?
Why is a Genetic Algorithm Better Than Other Optimizers?
What Types of Problems Do Genetic Algorithms Solve?
How are Genetic Algorithms Used in the NeuroShell Trader Professional?