Thanks for the responses, for the time being i have put this kata on my favorites and have decided to take my time researching and learning whatever it is that I'm missing here. :p

Also i cannot see comments with spoilers!!!

Rule 0 in algorithm problems: Don't fine-tune an algorithm that has the wrong complexity ;-) The 7th test should give you a good idea what the required complexity is like.

So far most people have success by finding the underlying pattern. Unless you know a certain secret, I'm afraid you'll have to go down that path too ;-)

why have you logged an issue? Please dont log issues just because you feel like it.