Python BasicsMedium

F(N)th term recursion problem

Detailed guide and Python implementation for the 'F(N)th term recursion problem' problem.

Problem Statement

Medium

Write a function fnth_term(n) that computes the nth term of the sequence defined by: F(1) = 1, F(2) = 1, F(3) = 1, and for n > 3: F(n) = F(n-1) + F(n-2) + F(n-3). This is the Tribonacci sequence. The function takes a positive integer n and returns the nth term.

Constraints
  • 1 <= n <= 30

Examples

Example 1
Input
n = 5
Output
5
Explanation

F(1)=1, F(2)=1, F(3)=1, F(4)=1+1+1=3, F(5)=3+1+1=5.

Example 2
Input
n = 4
Output
3
Explanation

F(4) = F(3) + F(2) + F(1) = 1 + 1 + 1 = 3.

Example 3
Input
n = 7
Output
17
Explanation

F(5)=5, F(6)=3+5+1? Let's trace: F(4)=3, F(5)=5, F(6)=F(5)+F(4)+F(3)=5+3+1=9, F(7)=F(6)+F(5)+F(4)=9+5+3=17.

Need a Hint?
Consider using Recursion-specific data structures like sets or heaps.
Edge Cases to Watch
  • Empty input structures
  • Single element inputs
  • Large numerical bounds

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