ABSTRACT
Genetic Algorithm can be considered as the pioneer for Evolutionary Optimization Algorithms (EOA). It has been in the research domain for the longest time and is one of the most studied EOA. Genetic Algorithm is based on the Darwin's theory of survival of the fittest. The chapter starts with the terminology required to understand the optimization technique. Another section is presented for detailed explanation of the fundamental concept behind the optimization technique. The different parts involved in the method like Selection, Crossover and Mutation are explained in detail. The variations introduced in them are also covered explicitly. Algorithm and Pseudocode is presented in the chapter for practical understanding of the topic. It is followed by the flowchart explaining the flow of control for the optimization technique. A very important part of the chapter then presents an example which shows a step by step solution of Genetic Algorithm for a standard optimization problem for two iterations. This section shall be highly helpful for those who have just started their study of the topic. Last section of the chapter discusses the different variants and hybrid versions of Genetic Algorithm. The chapter contains 35 Figures and 15 Tables for better visual explanation.
