mixed-integer programming

Mixed-integer programming (MIP) is a mathematical optimization method that helps find the best solution to problems involving decisions with both fixed choices (integers, such as yes/no or quantities) and continuous variables (like measurements). It models complex scenarios—such as scheduling, resource allocation, or routing—by setting objectives to maximize or minimize, while respecting various constraints. MIP is widely used in industries to make efficient, cost-effective decisions when some variables must be whole numbers (e.g., number of trucks) and others can vary continuously.