The power-voltage (P-V) curve of photovoltaic (PV) arrays connected in parallel to bypass diodes would have several local maximum power points (LMPP) under partial shading conditions (PSC). Conventional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) methods fail to search for the global maximum power point (MPP) because the searched peak point may remain at the LMPP on the P-V curve under PSC. This study proposes an improved MPPT algorithm to ensure that PV arrays operate at global maximum power point (GMPP) under PSC. The proposed algorithm is based on a critical study and a series of observations of PV characteristics under PSC. Results show the regularity of voltage interval between LMPPs. The algorithm has the advantages of rapidly reaching GMPP, maintaining stability, and recovering GMPP quickly when the operating condition changes. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed algorithm.