Contributing to open source can feel intimidating like you're walking into someone else’s codebase without an invitation. But the truth is: open source is one of the best ways to level up your skills, build your **developer reputation, and give back to the community.
Whether you're a beginner, student, or seasoned dev, this post breaks down exactly how to get started contributing to open source.
💡 Why Contribute to Open Source?
Here’s what you gain:
✅ Real-world experience
✅ Learn by reading (and writing) production-quality code
✅ Improve collaboration, Git, and code review skills
✅ Get visibility and build a strong portfolio
✅ Make a real impact, your code could be used by thousands (or millions!)
🪜 Step-by-Step: How to Contribute to an Open Source Project
1. Set Expectations (Start Small)
You don’t have to dive into the Linux kernel or rewrite a compiler. Start with small, meaningful contributions like:
- Fixing typos or broken links in documentation
- Improving README files
- Filing or triaging issues
- Fixing bugs labeled "good first issue"
- Writing tests or improving coverage
2. Find a Project That Interests You
You’ll stay more motivated if the project relates to something you use or care about.
🧭 Where to find beginner-friendly projects:
- Good First Issue
- Up For Grabs
- CodeTriage
- GitHub search with label:"good first issue" or label:"help wanted"
Also check:
- Tools or libraries you already use (VS Code, React, Django, etc.)
- Awesome lists on GitHub like Awesome for Beginners
3. Understand the Project
Before writing a single line of code:
✅ Read the README
✅ Check the CONTRIBUTING.md file (rules + how-tos)
✅ Browse open issues and discussions
✅ Look at the project’s code structure and commit history
✅ Join the project's Discord, Slack, or Gitter, if available
Pro tip: Some projects even have a DEVELOPERS.md or docs/ folder to explain how things work.
4. Pick a First Issue (and Ask to Work on It)
Find an issue labeled:
- good first issue
- help wanted
- beginner friendly
Comment on it:
Hi! I'd love to work on this issue. Is it still available?
Wait for a maintainer to assign it to you or confirm it's open. Then you're good to go!
5. Fork → Clone → Code
Standard contribution flow:
- Fork the repo to your GitHub account
- Clone it to your local machine
git clone https://github.com/your-username/project-name
- Create a feature branch
bash
git checkout -b fix-typo-in-readme
- Make your changes and commit
- Push your branch and open a Pull Request (PR)
6. Write a Great Pull Request (PR)
Your PR should:
- Have a clear title (Fix typo in README)
- Include a brief description of the change
- Reference the issue number (e.g., Closes #42)
- Pass tests and linters (run them locally if possible)
Example PR description:
Summary
Fixed a small typo in the README file under the installation section.
Closes #42
7. Be Open to Feedback
Most maintainers are kind but they may request changes. That’s totally normal.
✅ Respond politely
✅ Ask questions if you’re unsure
✅ Make revisions and push again
Once approved, your code will be merged 🎉
🙌 Best Practices and Pro Tips
- Stay consistent with the project's coding style
- Always pull the latest main branch before starting new work
- Write clear commit messages (fix: correct typo in command)
- Don’t take feedback personally, it’s part of learning
- Celebrate small wins!
💬 Final Thoughts
Open source isn’t about being perfect. It’s about collaborating and growing together.
Start small. Contribute often. And remember: the first PR is the hardest after that, it gets easier (and addictive 😄).
✅ Resources to Help You Get Started
- First Contributions – Practice open source contribution in a safe repo
- GitHub Docs – Forking Projects
- Git Handbook by GitHub
👋 Have you contributed to open source before? Got tips or favorite beginner-friendly projects? Drop them in the comments and let’s help more devs get started.
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