RecursionError: maximum recursion depth exceeded
This error matches known, documented patterns with reliable solutions.
Quick Fix (Most Common Solution)
- Add proper base case
- Convert to iterative solution
Seeing "RecursionError: maximum recursion depth exceeded"? This error can be frustrating, but it's usually fixable. It typically affects your development workflow or system. Below you'll find clear, step-by-step solutions to resolve this issue.
What This Error Means
Your recursive function called itself too many times without a base case.
Frequently documented in developer and vendor support forums.
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Common Causes
- Missing or incorrect base case
- Infinite recursion
- Very deep valid recursion
How to Fix
- Add proper base case
- Convert to iterative solution
- Increase limit with sys.setrecursionlimit()
Last reviewed: March 2026 How we review solutions
Optional follow-up
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the default recursion limit?
Usually 1000 in Python. Check with sys.getrecursionlimit().
Is increasing limit safe?
Can cause stack overflow. Better to use iteration.
Related Resources
Also Known As
- Python exception
- Python traceback
- Python runtime error
- Python crash
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