Backtracking is a process of RETURNING to a previous point in order to make a different decision or take a different action. It is often used in problem solving, especially in computer science, where it is known as an algorithmic technique. The term 'backtracking' can be broken down into three parts: RETURNING, undoing, and U-turn. RETURNING refers to the act of going back to a previous point, undoing is the act of reversing a decision or action, and U-turn is the act of changing direction.