We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Processing

Save

May 1, 2024 Updated May 9, 2025 19 minute read

Processing is a flexible software sketchbook, a programming language, and a worldwide community that has been promoting software literacy within the visual arts and visual literacy within technology since 2001. It is an open-source graphical library and integrated development environment (IDE) built with the purpose of teaching the fundamentals of computer programming in a visual context, especially to those who are not programmers. Processing uses the Java programming language as its foundation, but simplifies it with additional classes and easier-to-use mathematical functions, making it more accessible for beginners. The environment also provides a graphical user interface that simplifies the process of compiling and running code.

Path to Processing

Take the first step.

We've curated ten courses to help you on your path to Processing. Use these to develop your skills, build background knowledge, and put what you learn to practice.

Sorted from most relevant to least relevant:

Creative Programming for Digital Media & Mobile Apps

Save

BioData Processing

Save

FEM - Linear, Nonlinear Analysis & Post-Processing

Save

Advanced Arduino Boards and Tools

Save

Embedded Systems and Robotics Fluency

Save

Eine Einführung in die Finite Elemente Methode mit SimScale

Eine Einführung in die Finite Elemente Methode mit...

Save

CFD Simulation Through a Centrifugal Pump

Save

Finite Element Analysis Convergence and Mesh Independence

Save

Python Fundamentals for Designers

Save

Data Structures for Designers Using Python

Save

Help others find this page about Processing: by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Facebook

Copy Link

Reading list

We've selected four books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Processing.

Processing, second edition

Save

Comprehensive guide to Processing, covering the basics of the language as well as more advanced topics such as 3D graphics and sound. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Processing.

Processing, second edition

Paperback

Check price

Processing, second edition

Kindle Edition

Check price

The Nature of Code

Save

Comprehensive guide to using Processing to create simulations of natural phenomena. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about using Processing to create their own simulations of natural phenomena.

The Nature of Code

Paperback

(中文) 代码本色：用编程模拟自然系统 (图灵程序设计丛书) (Chinese Edition)

Kindle Edition

Generative Art

Save

Focuses on using Processing to create generative art, which is art that is created using algorithms and computer code. It great resource for artists and designers who want to learn more about using Processing to create their own generative art.

Generative Art: A Practical Guide Using Processing

Paperback

Generative Art: A practical guide using Processing

Kindle Edition

Cybersecurity Essentials

Save

Focuses on using Processing to create Android apps. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about using Processing to create their own Android apps.

Cybersecurity Essentials

Paperback

Cybersecurity Essentials

Kindle Edition

Relevant careers

Graphic Designer

Web Developer

Data Scientist

Game Developer

Researcher

Software Engineer

Programmer