The Runtime Theory

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Function Calls and Stack Frames

Trace arguments, return state, locals, and calling conventions.

Explore ABI rules, registers, stack frames, recursion, inlining, return values, and why a source-level function does not always create a frame.

1 article · 1 video · 1 trace · 1 request flow · 1 interview · 5 total

Articles

function calls and stack framesSep 25, 2026

What a Function Call Places in a Stack Frame

A function call transfers control while preserving enough state for the caller to resume.

Request Flows

request flow · 5 stagesHow What a Function Call Places in a Stack Frame worksAn interactive concept flow for what a function call places in a stack frame, from its assumptions through the main operation and boundary checks.

Videos

function calls and stack framesSep 25, 2026

Video lesson: What a Function Call Places in a Stack Frame

Recording brief and narration plan for a visual lesson on what a function call places in a stack frame.

Traces

trace 01 · runtimeTrace: What a Function Call Places in a Stack FrameFollow the key state changes and boundary checks involved in what a function call places in a stack frame.

Interviews

medium · t2Explain What a Function Call Places in a Stack FrameExplain the model, execution steps, complexity, and limits of what a function call places in a stack frame.

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