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Depends on what level of math you’re talking about. Math is nothing but a bunch of (fairly) basic algorithms (often expressed declaratively, rather than imperat
by ssivark 7y ago
Depends on what level of math you’re talking about. Math is nothing but a bunch of (fairly) basic algorithms (often expressed declaratively, rather than imperatively) for solving problems in the real world. Sometimes you also have fancy data structures like vectors and objects like polygons and what not. If one is solving problems in the physical world, that is super useful. It like a compiler which ensures that you will not make (a bunch of) simple conceptual mistakes, and will make several ideas obvious (I often see programmers spending time on iteratively refining heuristics when either 1. Math tells you a good answer 2. Math tells you the problem is ill-defined and impossible to answer). I would consider it even more primary than a course in data structures and algorithms. In other domains like front end design, an aesthetic sense and understanding of colors and typography might be more important. So math is always useful (adds some value), it’s just a question of where it comes on the list of priorities. Math can be picked up with domain experience, just like software dev skills, or whatever else. And specialization is a thing — one can choose to develop skills selectively. Someone building CRUD apps might not give a damn about mastering coordinate geometry, and someone working in robotics might instead not give a damn about mastering category theory (generically). YMMV, and it’s meaningless to try and “settle” this question. The answers depends very much on the specific set of problems/experiences you consider. So the answers are only going to tell you about the distribution of people on HN (who might bother to answer a question like this); refer Wittgenstein’s ruler.
If you feel FOMO for a topic, consider spending some time with it (whatever the subject). Otherwise, carry on blissfully. I would consider many other topics as important, but we all have limited time. C’est la vie.