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Computer programming and web development

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leafy
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28 Nov 2007, 3:21 am

Does computer programming and web development involve a lot of math? If they do what level of math do you need to be a great web developer and programmer? Also, are there fields of mathematics that are more useful and important to know than others when it comes to web development and programming?

Is programming and web development just math?



tomamil
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28 Nov 2007, 4:07 am

depends. i have created program for computational modeling of hydrated soft tissues and that involved high math, but that's kind of research programming. it's not that common. especially not for web development. expect more math if you want to do graphics, but that's not any high level either, mainly logical thinking.



TheZach
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28 Nov 2007, 10:53 am

Its involves mass ammonts of caffinated beverages - Mt Dew, Bawls, etc.


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Stewie
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28 Nov 2007, 1:46 pm

I would estimate the 90+% of all programmers were done with higher math when they were done with college. Most programming doesn't require any knowledge of high math at all. Some areas that do: graphics, modeling, computational analysis of any kind, performance analysis, algorithm analysis, etc... But that's a minutely small percentage of programmers. Very little web programming has anything to do with math, unless it fits into one the above categories.

But it helps if you can think like you would in math. Programming requires logically analyzing and breaking down problems to find solutions. Math-type thinkers tend to be better programmers.

There are, of course, exceptions to every rule.



leafy
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28 Nov 2007, 2:40 pm

Thank you guys for the replies.

I ask because my math is weak, and programming fits me best.

It involves minimal social interaction and you get to work alone.



jread
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28 Nov 2007, 7:23 pm

The vast majority of real-world programming does not require anything higher than basic algebra. I love programming and it comes naturally to me (perfect Aspie career) and I'm absolutely terrible at math. I honestly never do much more than add/subtract/multiply/divide, though. If I can do it, you can do it. It's a fascinating field and very suited to people like us. I think you should give it a try :)