Binary Search Steps Calculator

Estimate the maximum comparisons needed for binary search over a sorted collection.

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Max comparisons -
log2(n) -
Items -
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Enter the example value or paste your own input, choose the mode when one is available, and read the first result card for the direct answer. The output area gives a copyable block for code reviews, documentation, API tests, classwork or troubleshooting notes.

What the result means

Binary search halves the remaining search space each step, so the maximum comparison count is ceil(log2(n + 1)).

What is not included

The estimate assumes the collection is sorted and random access is available.

Privacy note

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