How to start contributing to an open source project as a beginner

Hey there, maybe you've already read our blog about how to start in open source as a beginner, and now you are ready to actually do it. Well, here's a quick guide for you. Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of contributing to open source projects? It might seem daunting at first, but don't worry - I'm here to give you a beginner's guide on how to get started.

Step 1: Find a project that interests you

First things first, you need to find a project that piques your interest. There are thousands of open source projects out there, so don't be afraid to take your time to browse and find something that speaks to you. Maybe you're passionate about web development, or maybe you love tinkering with robotics. Whatever your interests are, there's an open source project out there waiting for you.

Step 2: Get familiar with the project

Once you've found a project that you're interested in contributing to, take some time to get familiar with it. Read through the project's documentation, get a feel for the codebase, and try running the project on your local machine. This will help you get a sense of how the project works and what kind of contributions might be helpful.

Step 3: Look for issues to work on

Now that you're familiar with the project, it's time to start looking for issues to work on. Most open source projects will have a list of issues or tasks that need to be completed, so check those out first. If you're not sure where to start, look for issues labeled "good first issue" or "beginner-friendly" - these are specifically meant for newcomers to the project.

Step 4: Ask for help

If you're stuck or not sure what to do, don't be afraid to ask for help. Most open source communities are friendly and welcoming to newcomers, and there are usually forums or chat rooms where you can ask questions and get advice. Remember, everyone starts somewhere - even the most experienced contributors were beginners at some point.

Step 5: Make your contribution

Now comes the fun part - actually making your contribution! This could involve writing code, fixing bugs, updating documentation, or even just testing the project and reporting issues. Whatever your contribution is, be sure to follow the project's guidelines and best practices, and don't be afraid to ask for feedback before submitting your work.

Step 6: Celebrate your contribution!

Congratulations, you've made your first contribution to an open source project! Take a moment to celebrate your hard work and the impact you've made on the project. And who knows - maybe this is just the beginning of a long and rewarding journey in the world of open source.

Contributing to open source projects can be a fun and rewarding experience, and it's a great way to learn new skills and make a positive impact on the world. So don't be afraid to dive in, ask for help when you need it, and have fun along the way!

About the author

Joff Tiquez, hailing from Manila, Philippines, is the individual behind the establishment of OSSPH. He is a web developer who strongly supports open source and has been overseeing projects like Vue Stripe for an extended period. To get in touch with Joff, you can visit https://bento.me/jofftiquez.