processing/p5.js

Use random() more in p5.strands examples

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#8776 opened on May 10, 2026

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

Description

Increasing access

Previously, we didn't have random() supported, so many examples use noise() as a source of randomness. This works, but is a little less familiar from how one would use p5 outside of strands, so switching to random() makes these examples a little easier to understand.

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

e.g. in the second example in https://beta.p5js.org/reference/p5/buildStrokeShader/, it uses noise for dithering. We probably need to look through all the strands reference items to get a full list of what might need to be updated.

Contributor guide

Tech stack
javascript
Domain
documentation
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
Basic knowledge of p5.jsUnderstanding of noise() and random() functionsFamiliarity with GitHub workflow
Newbie friendlinessA 1-100 score estimating how approachable this issue is for first-time contributors.
80
Research direction
Examine the p5.js reference examples for strands, particularly the second example at https://beta.p5js.org/reference/p5/buildStrokeShader/. Identify all instances where noise() is used and can be replaced with random() to improve clarity. Check the p5.js repository for example files in the reference folder. Ensure the replacement maintains the visual effect.