A staircase has n steps. You can scale the stairs by taking steps one or two at a time. How many ways are there to scale the steps?

If there are 0 steps, there is 1 possibility (you are already done).If there is 1 step, there is 1 possibility (you take one step).If there are n steps, your first choice is either 1 step or 2 steps:Choice 1: the problem now exists for n-1 stepsChoice 2: the problem now exists for n-2 stepsLet f(x) be the number of ways of scaling x steps. You can now say that f(x) = f(x-1) + f(x-2) - the Fibonacci sequence.This is an example of a dynamic programming question - a computer science topic for first-year Cambridge computer scientists, and my first interview question.

Related Oxbridge Preparation Mentoring answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between an Oxbridge personal statement and a normal one?


What are Oxbridge interviews really like? And how can I prepare for them?


How should I prepare for an Oxford philosophy interview (for PPE) if I have never studied philosophy before?


Is the Jesus of Johns Gospel really human?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences