# Software Rendering in 500 Lines of Bare C++ Learn the fundamentals of modern 3D graphics APIs. - **Source:** [Hacker News](https://news.ycombinator.com) - **Published:** 2026-07-23 - **Topic:** [Software & Engineering](https://brifing.si/c/engineering) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/9b0bb5dc-459a-42dd-a2fe-230ae2f14cd4 ## Introduction This article aims to build a software renderer from scratch to understand how modern 3D graphics APIs like OpenGL, Vulkan, Metal, and DirectX work. The training material, designed for students, focuses on creating a basic renderer with just 500 lines of C++ code. ## Starting Point The project begins with no third-party libraries, just pure C++. The only support provided is a simple class for handling TGA files, which is sufficient for managing RGB, RGBA, and grayscale images. ## Basic Functions Initially, the only functionality available is setting the color of a single pixel. There are no built-in functions for drawing line segments or triangles; all these features must be implemented manually, which is crucial for understanding the core concepts. ## Student Experience Students typically spend 10 to 20 hours completing this project. This process provides a deep understanding of how modern 3D graphics APIs function. Writing their own code reinforces the learning experience. ## Results By the end of the project, students can render a simple 3D model composed of a triangulated mesh and textures. The rendering result is saved as an image file. ## Significance This project offers a unique opportunity to grasp the fundamental principles of 3D graphics APIs. Such understanding is critical for writing efficient GPU applications. It also empowers students to develop their own renderers. ## Sources covering this story - https://haqr.eu/tinyrenderer/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._