Discrete optimization

Discrete optimization is a branch of optimization in applied mathematics and computer science.

As opposed to continuous optimization, some or all of the variables used in a discrete mathematical program are restricted to be discrete variables—that is, to assume only a discrete set of values, such as the integers.

Two notable branches of discrete optimization are:

These branches are closely intertwined however since many combinatorial optimization problems can be modeled as integer programs (e.g. shortest path) and conversely, integer programs can often be given a combinatorial interpretation.

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