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OctWhat is Recursion in C++ | Types of Recursion in C++ ( With Examples )
22 Sep 2025
Intermediate
5.27K Views
6 min read
Recursion in C++: An Overview
In the previous tutorials, we went through various aspects of functions in C++ likefunction parameters, call by value and call by reference, etc. Hence, we have become familiar with functions and its uses in programming. So, in this C++ tutorial, we are now moving towards recursion, a little advanced but very important technique in C++ programming.You can even check out our C++ Full Course Free for more understanding.
What is Recursion in C++?
Recursion is the process in which a function calls itself again and again. It entails decomposing a challenging issue into more manageable issues and then solving each one again. There must be a terminating condition to stop such recursive calls.

Syntax
recursionfunction()
{
recursionfunction(); //calling self function
} Example
#include <iostream>
using namespace std;
int fibonacci(int);
int main() {
int n, f;
n=12;
f = fibonacci(n);
cout << f;
return 0;
}
int fibonacci(int n) {
if (n == 0) {
return 0;
} else if (n == 1) {
return 1;
} else {
return fibonacci(n - 1) + fibonacci(n - 2);
}
}
- This C++ program in C++ Editor uses
recursionto determine thenthFibonacci number. - It accepts the input
nand returns 0 or 1 depending on whethernis 0 or 1. - Otherwise, it adds the two Fibonacci numbers before calculating the Fibonacci number recursively.
Output
if n = 12 then output will be:
144Read More - C++ Interview Interview Questions and Answers
Advantages of Recursion
- The code can be made shorter with the help of
recursion. - It offers a clear and straightforward method for writing the code.
- It reduces the need to call the function repeatedly.
- In issues like tree traversals as well as the
Tower of Hanoi,recursionis recommended.
Disadvantages of Recursion
- Slower than non-recursive functions.
- The code is difficult to decipher or comprehend.
- Debugging can be difficult as compared to iterative programs.
- Its space requirements are more compared to iterative programs.
- Due to
function calls, it requires more time than usual.
Summary
Recursion is a very useful approach when it comes to programming. It has wide applications ranging from calculating the factorial of a number to sorting and traversal algorithms.
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