What is the alpha-beta pruning algorithm?

The alpha-beta pruning algorithm is an algorithm designed to make engine position analysis much more effective. The two main concepts of this algorithm are forward pruning and reduction.

Forward pruning is when less optimal moves are searched at a lesser depth. Reduction is when more realistic moves are explored at a larger depth. If the engine mistakenly prunes a wrong line of play, it will be corrected when it meets a depth cap and it will be cut off.