Re: Understanding OpenGL without understanding Linear Algebra?

Mike King wrote:
I recently became interested in developing programs that utilized OpenGL. I wanted to write a small program that demonstrated network security for my class by creating a 3D scene. I started out reading the NeHe tutorials which excited me about OpenGL and I wanted to know more. As a result, I ran out to a local bookstore and bought the book "OpenGL Superbible." They didn't have the "red book" in the store. I started reading that book, and I realized if I really wanted to know OpenGL, then I would need to buy the "red book." So I did. Now, I'm up to chapter 3 and I have realized I need to know Linear Algebra to understand the matrix math. The problem is I haven't taken Linear Algebra yet, I'm I screwed? The last math class I took was Calculus I. Can I pick up the math in a short period of time? Should I go back to the Superbible book, or is it hopeless for me?



It's up to you to decide if it's "hopeless." Do you want it badly enough? You won't get far creating your own real-time 3d scenes without understanding the utility of vectors and matrices, but I wouldn't worry too much about buying book A or book B in search of a quick fix. Most of what you need can be found on the web. If, however, you prefer the methodical approach a book can give you, I'd skip the OpenGL-specific titles and focus on fundamentals, something like "Mathematics for 3D Game Programming & Computer Graphics" by Eric Lengyel.

-JJ
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