How to contribute to open-source as a beginner?

So, You have been hearing the buzz about open source, may be on social media, through a friend or some one randomly. and now you are having a thought on this topic, like how can i actually contribute to this too, kind of this thing somehow fascinating you, right? you stumbled upon a cool project on GitHub.

Short Answer for you: A big Yes!
Want longer answer? Well, just stick around, let's walk through it, and understand how it can be done.

First Thing First: What is Open Source?

Open source simply means the code or design, documentation etc. and this project will be available publicly, and anyone can see it, use it, and even they can make improvements in it, including beginners.

From web framework like React to tools like VS code, many of the tech things, which you use in your daily life are built by some real people across the world. and don't think it's from those experts who works in green terminal window, nope! this is mostly built form people like you, who starting somewhere.

So, how do you get started?

Let's go through a beginner friendly roadmap to get you started...

1. Pick a Project that Interests You The Most

Why i told you to choose a project that grabs your excitement? cause this is something you already have a grip on, that you already care about. that will keep you motivated. Search GitHub, visit sites such as Up For Grabs etc.

2. Look for "Good First Issues"

Many of the projects use tags like "Good First Issue" or "First Time Only" to label beginner friendly tasks.
and these are goldmines. They are designed specifically for the beginners or newcomers and comes with some instruction for providing help.

3. Read the Contributing Guide

Most projects have a CONTRIBUTING.md file in the repo. this guides you over how to set up the project, coding conversation and how to submit the change, and whatever kind of help they want.

4. Ask Questions

Never be afraid of asking questions in your any situation of life, asking question is not any bad or shameful thing, remember that, it's okay to clear your doubt! just be polite and do your homework first, and ask thoughtful questions.

5. Make Your First Contribution

This is the exciting part! once you do all these in action mode, it's get a lot easier next time. practicing makes you more confident. so take your first step, make your changes, and submit a pull request (PR).

Conclusion

If there is one thing we want to take away, is that, "you don't need to be the expert or perfectionist sort of" in order to start what you really want to do, you just simply have to start, and that's it!

And believe me, once you do, you will be amazed at how rewarding and welcoming the open source world can be.

Need help finding your first project, you can find a lot of recruiters here, at jobdekhe.com and connect with them to ask for some experience first, join jobdekhe.com, your friendly guide!