How to Calculate Terms in Recursive Sequences

The Organic Chemistry Tutor

This concise mathematics tutorial introduces students to recursive formulas, a fundamental concept in Algebra and Pre-Calculus regarding sequences. The video demonstrates how to generate the terms of a sequence when given a starting value and a recursive rule. The instructor uses a digital blackboard format to walk through the step-by-step arithmetic required to find subsequent terms based on previous ones, emphasizing the iterative nature of the process. The video explores two key examples: a linear recursive formula involving simple multiplication and addition, and a more complex non-linear formula involving squaring. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to explaining subscript notation (such as n, n+1, and n-1), clarifying how these symbols represent the "current," "next," and "previous" terms relative to one another. This distinction is crucial for students learning to interpret mathematical language. For educators, this resource serves as an excellent direct instruction module or review tool. It isolates the mechanical skill of evaluating recursive functions without the distraction of word problems or complex contexts, making it ideal for introducing the concept or remediating students who struggle with function notation. The clear visual layout helps students track the substitution process, reinforcing algebraic precision.