Programmers v. Coders

[Velocd]

<a href="http://slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=04/05/05/1325219" target="_blank">http://slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=04/05/05/1325219</a>

An interesting discussion in a slashdot thread about the level of math needed to really work effectively as a programmer. I'm working toward a Computer Science degree, and alreading feeling the pressure with the level of math required to comprehend data structures, algorithms and algorithmic efficiency in programming applications.

Most programming jobs today seem to require a CS major or equivalent for consideration of even being hired, but the work you may be writing are non-math intensive APIs, database implementations, writing efficient SQL, etc.

But one reason employers hire programmers of a CS major is because their cognizant abilites in math allow for more proficient problem solving tactics, and improved work flow.

Just something to think about if you're going into the CS major, so to stick with the math and not be intimidated by it.

It doesn't really apply to entreprenuers who create a web application and make tons of money from their innovative service. Although if they wish to improve it, and expand their business, they'll want to hire efficient programmers.

[Xenon]

good to hear, as i'm studiing CS and maths.

[amykhar]

I was a math major, not a computer science major. The CS courses were good for theory and such, but the problem solving skills I learned in the math courses are what have helped me the most.

I know many people who took a business track instead of a math track, and they all seemed to struggle with the logic of programming. They needed somebody to tell them exactly what to do before they could write code.

[filburt1]

In my years of coding, both professionally and freelance, I have never needed any math more complex than trigonometry. Granted, I wasn't developing games, 3D modelling software, etc.

[Brad]

Math is the reason I did'nt aspire to be a programmer for a full time job, I am very bad at it. Pay attention in class so you don't end up like me .

[vbmechanic]

Originally Posted by Velocd

http://slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=04/05/05/1325219
It doesn't really apply to entreprenuers who create a web application and make tons of money from their innovative service. Although if they wish to improve it, and expand their business, they'll want to hire efficient programmers.

I'm probably better at giving birth than I am at math.. (I'm male.) I think I code PHP pretty well and fairly fast.

[assassingod]

I'm no good at math either, I have tutor lessons every friday but I still can't get the hang of anything. However I find algerbra extemely easy if I think im coding PHP. I always think of x as a variable and it always helps me figure out the equation. God im nerdy

[colicab-d]

Sadly theres a way in which the brain works with these things, for starters the left side of the brain controls grammar and vocal abilities aswell as languages, the other right side is creative in art and able to recognize patterns better.

This is where the problem occurs as if in theory your trying to learn a language structure then youd better be able to recognize the shapes and patterns within, thus your right side now kicks in.

So really by improving your maths skill your also improving your artistic ability as if the brain is developing then both will grow equally, however the other side will begin to pale in relation.

Thus maths may leave you a mute if you study it to the level you gusy are wishing LOL,

no but do you see my point that if your maths ability is increased then your actual language abilitys will drop so although you may recognize the simple patterns of the program languages (i.e abbreviations etc) then your business and natural language will deteriarate.

[amykhar]

then your business and natural language will deteriarate

Not necessarily. Right now, I am working as a journalist for the local paper. I didn't lose my verbal skills by strengthening my math and logic skills.

[filburt1]

If you're a professional developer then you will have to make presentations, documents, documentation, etc. at some point, including public speaking.