How does Karel recognize its starting position on a grid?

Karel recognizes its starting position on a grid by maintaining the initial coordinates provided. When Karel begins a task, it is set up on the grid with specific coordinates, which determine its starting point. These coordinates are typically defined in the program before Karel begins moving, enabling it to understand its location within the grid system accurately. This way, Karel can navigate based on these coordinates throughout its movements and tasks.

While there are other methods of positioning that might seem plausible, they do not apply here because Karel’s programming relies fundamentally on the initial coordinates given at the start of the program, ensuring it has a clear reference point to work from.