Why is the naive recursive approach inefficient?

Updated Apr 28, 2026

Short answer

It recalculates the same subproblems multiple times.

Deep explanation

The Fibonacci sequence is defined by the recurrence relation $F_n = F_{n-1} + F_{n-2}$. It recalculates the same subproblems multiple times.

Real-world example

Modeling population growth in ideal conditions.

Common mistakes

  • Using a 1-based index when the interviewer expects 0-based.

Follow-up questions

  • What is the 5th Fibonacci number?

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