In the previous chapter, we learned how to define a function and its parameters.
Example
function addTwoToNumber(num){
return num += 2;
}
console.log(addTwoToNumber(12));
Console Output
14
When called, the parameter num is passed an argument, which in this case is
the number 12. The function executes and returns the value 14, which
the console.log statement prints.
Functions should only accomplish one (preferably simple) task. To solve more complicated tasks, one small function must call other functions.
Example
function addTwoToNumber(num){
return num += 2;
}
function addFiveToNumber(value){
let result = addTwoToNumber(value) + 3;
return result;
}
console.log(addFiveToNumber(12))
Console Output
17
Of course, there is no need to write a function to add 5 to a value, but the example demonstrates calling a function from within another function.
In programming, the divide and conquer strategy solves a problem by breaking it down into smaller, simpler pieces. If these pieces can all be solved in exactly the same way, then we gain an additional advantage. Solving the big problem becomes a process of completing and combining the smaller parts.
Splitting up a large task into smaller, identical pieces allows us to reuse a single function rather than coding several different functions. We accomplish this by either:
Recursion is the process of solving a larger problem by breaking it into smaller pieces that can all be solved in exactly the same way. The clever idea behind recursion is that instead of using a loop, a function simply calls itself over and over again, with each step reducing the size of the problem.
Through recursion, a problem eventually gets reduced to a very simple task, which can be immediately solved. This small answer sets up the solution for the previous step, which in turn solves the next bigger step. Properly built, the function combines all of the small answers to solve the original problem.
Many new programmers (and even veteran ones) find recursion an abstract and tricky concept. One helpful way to approach the idea is to walk through an example.