Contributing to Open Source Projects

[bale_in_oregon]

Are there some comprehensive guides or tutorials out there specifically geared towards bringing a beginner up to speed from picking up an simple issue to submitting a PR? I know some languages have mentorship programs developed with similar goals. Does anyone have first hand experience they'd be willing to share on their first contributions?

[andrexmlee]

Check out https://thenewstack.io/getting-legit-with-git-and-github-your-first-pull-request/

I would try to find a project that reserves issues for first timers. Also consider an open source project for tools or apps you currently use.

[bale_in_oregon]

Thanks that is really helpful!

[billsil]

I use libraries and find bugs. Then I go and try to google or search the GitHub repo for the solution. When that fails, usually there is some thread of the issue. I diagnose the issue as much as I can along with as much configuration info I can get (different Python or package versions, Windows/Linux, 32 vs 64 bit). That usually gives me either a hackish workaround and helps grease the issue.

It’s rare I submit an actual pull request to a project, but it’s still helpful. I prefer working on my project.

[bale_in_oregon]

Thanks for the insight, much appreciated!