processing/p5.js

Add p5.strands support for randomGaussian()

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#8775 opened on May 10, 2026

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 (10 comments) (1 reaction) (1 assignee)JavaScript (20,784 stars) (3,178 forks)batch import
Area:WebGLEnhancementHelp Wantedp5.js 2.0+p5.strands

Description

Increasing access

We recently implemented random() in p5.strands. The more similar functions we implement in both places, the less users will need to worry about what can or can't be used in different places.

Most appropriate sub-area of p5.js?

  • Accessibility
  • Color
  • Core/Environment/Rendering
  • Data
  • DOM
  • Events
  • Image
  • IO
  • Math
  • Typography
  • Utilities
  • WebGL
  • Build process
  • Unit testing
  • Internationalization
  • Friendly errors
  • Other (specify if possible)

Feature enhancement details

Ideally we can use the existing random() backend, and build a wrapper over it that redistributes the uniform random numbers rather than building a separate random implementation.

Contributor guide

Tech stack
javascript
Domain
frontend
Issue type
feature
DifficultyEstimated implementation difficulty for a new contributor, from 1 for very small changes to 5 for expert-level work.
2
Estimated timeA rough time range for an experienced contributor to investigate, implement, test, and prepare a pull request.
1-3 hours
Activity statusHow available the issue appears right now: fresh, active, stale, blocked, or waiting on maintainer input.
active
ClarityHow clearly the issue explains the expected change, acceptance criteria, and next step.
clear
Prerequisites
JavaScriptp5.js fundamentalsUnderstanding of random() and Gaussian distribution
Newbie friendlinessA 1-100 score estimating how approachable this issue is for first-time contributors.
70
Research direction
Examine the existing random() implementation in p5.strands to understand the backend. Review the p5.js Math module for the Gaussian distribution algorithm (e.g., Box Muller transform). Implement a wrapper that calls the existing random() and transforms the output to a Gaussian distribution. Ensure the function matches the API conventions of p5.strands.