Python Tutorial 5.4 - Recursion in Python

Welcome to the “Recursion” tutorial!

Overview

A recursive function calls itself to solve smaller instances of a problem.

Base Case & Recursive Case

• Base Case: stops recursion.
• Recursive Case: divides problem and calls itself.

Example: Factorial

def factorial(n):
    if n <= 1:        # base case
        return 1
    return n * factorial(n - 1)  # recursive case

print(factorial(5))  # 120

Key Takeaways

• Every recursive function needs a base case.
• Watch out for deep recursion to avoid RecursionError.

Happy coding!