GLSL
GLSL (OpenGL Shading Language) is a high-level shading language used to program shaders for graphics rendering in OpenGL, OpenGL ES, and WebGL. It allows developers to write custom vertex and fragment shaders to control the rendering pipeline, enabling effects like lighting, shadows, textures, and post-processing. GLSL is integral to real-time graphics in applications such as video games, simulations, and data visualizations.
Developers should learn GLSL when working on graphics-intensive applications that require custom rendering effects, such as 3D games, VR/AR experiences, or scientific visualizations. It is essential for optimizing performance and achieving advanced graphical features beyond fixed-function pipelines, particularly in environments using OpenGL, OpenGL ES, or WebGL. Mastery of GLSL enables fine-tuned control over GPU operations, leading to more efficient and visually compelling outputs.