What are the best practices for using recursion in programming?

What are the best practices for using recursion in programming?

Some best practices for recursion include ensuring a base case, minimizing the use of global variables, and optimizing for tail recursion when possible.

Can you explain what a base case is?

A base case is a condition in a recursive function that stops the recursion from continuing indefinitely. It's essential for preventing stack overflow.

How do I optimize a recursive function for tail recursion?

To optimize for tail recursion, ensure that the recursive call is the last operation in the function. This allows some compilers to optimize the call stack.

Are there any common pitfalls to avoid with recursion?

Yes, common pitfalls include forgetting the base case, excessive memory usage due to deep recursion, and not considering the performance implications.