Math skill = programming capability?

Question

I learned calculus with ease and am wondering if I've got what it takes to become skilled with all the general aspects of C++ as well as a specialty, like 3D. I guess this is a question about how difficult C++ is too swallow over let's say 5+ years of schooling and self-teaching.

*Great responses. I've come to realize my question was flawed. The underlining assumption, math = logic, was left unsaid and I've misguided some in thinking I was questioning if programming requires math skill.

I may have better represented my inquiry if I focused the question on math logic vs programming logic.

Answer 1

Math is a good general skill to have in parallel to logic which is what programming actually need.

Failing 2nd year multi-integral calculus I did, but I am very good at programming, and I know individuals with problems other way around.

Answer 2

Programming in C++ and most languages do not require you to be a math genius. The only kind of math that will help you be a better programmer is Discrete Mathematics, which introduces recursive functions and logical expressions. Working with 3D objects and game programming is another story. I'm not sure because I haven't explored that yet, but I would imagine you would need to know a great deal of geometry and physics but most programming is not specifically linked with math. It's all about practice and working with it long enough.

Answer 3

I think of programming as more of a creative activity. To be able to overcome problems you come across when you start programming, there are many times you need to be creative. It's also a lot of logic.

I like to consider myself a skilled programmer, I'm fluent in about 4 programming languages, including C++. I'm also good at math. However, I have a friend who is just a skilled a programmer as I am, even better really but he is horrible at math. He had to retake the SATs because he bombed the math section.

Answer 4

Skill in math does help.

I would suggest thinking about learning C# instead of C++. If you look at what cutting edge programing schools are teaching you will see that it is this. Oddly enough the Community College I am attending has one of the best programing programs I have been able to find. It even rivals what some 4 year programs offer in that some of the Senior level classes are 2nd year classes.

Oh, the school is in Arkansas too.

Answer 5

Math certainly help, but programming is an exercise in logic. Boolean algebra plays a big part as most programming is a 'if then what' situation.
If you think about all the different things that can happen depending on where you click your mouse on this page, you'll get a picture of just how detailed programming can be.

Answer 6

Advanced math skills (trigonometry, diffeq) are use full if you plan on implementing 3D graphics primitives such as rendering, but realistically in today's programming you seldom need to do that.

Keep in mind all the basics algorithms) of 3D computer graphics have been well established and around for over 30 years.

If your going to work in a professional 3D graphics environment , your not likely to be manipulating low-level 3D graphics primitives, that is your not going to be doing any of the math for the 3D transformation, shading or rendering. The Graphics API (Such as OpenGL, DirectX Windows) or the Video Cards graphics functions, will do all the heavy lifting for you. There are even more sophisticated 3D engines that give you more functions and are easier to work with, LEARN an ESTABLISHED 3D graphic toolkit!

Focus on Learning one of these 3D engines (toolkits), and their capabilities. Almost all 3D engine offer a C/C++ API so you can .

BTW , I disagree with the poster that told you to learn C#, it is a Microsoft only language and most 3D graphics toolkits (such as thoese that are open source or for the MAC) do not have native support for C# , focus on C/c++ instead this is the establish standard in 3d Graphics , all 3D GRraphics APIs and engines support it.

Best of luck

Answer 7

MATH to be good in programming is a BIG Myth.

The truth is that people who write programming books ALWAYS use math examples to make SURE their audience will be an
educated audiences no Mr everybody. Those writers are BASTARDS trying to make programming an elitist hobby or profession. Unless you do game programming who will require maths because of the nature of game programming there is NO need to be good in math. Programming requires mostly creativity . Then the logic verify if your creativity is valid.

Answer 8

I program 3D Graphics for games. All you really need to know for it is trigonometry and Algebra II. As mentioned above it's all logical thinking when it comes to programming. C/C++ is easy to learn if you already know the fundamentals of programming like Variables, Lists, Arrays, Pointers, OPP, etc...

You could probably learn C/C++ in two to three years of self teaching yourself. C/C++ is really one of those languages you continue learning even after you have developed a good understating of it.

Here are some software to help you get started.

http://blender.org A free 3D molder called Blender.

http://gimp.org Free alternative to Adobe Photoshop.

http://uvuvmapper.com If you don't want to use the UV mapper in Blender for your models.

http://bloodshed.net A free C/C++ Compiler.

http://www.planet-source-code.com If you need any C/C++ algorithms check here.

If you would like some free tutorials checkout http://waybuilder.net and click on the free-ed.net and look for some course in C or C++.

If you need a quick way to manipulate your graphics(say, make them move around) check out torque gaming engine at http://garagegames.com .

Answer 9

Well I am horrible at math but I program in C++. If that helps..3D programming depending on what you do can involve alot of math, so yes I think being good at math helps but I would not say it is required in my opinion.

Answer 10

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