Definition:Optimization Theory

Definition
Optimization theory is a branch of mathematics whose aim is to find the "best" solution to a practical problem.

In this context, best is dependent upon the aim of what the solution of the problem is to achieve.

Optimization theory encompasses such topics as:
 * the calculus of variations
 * control theory
 * convex optimization theory
 * decision theory
 * game theory
 * linear programming
 * Markov chains
 * network analysis
 * queueing theory

and so on.

Also see

 * Definition:Operations Research