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How to Get Started with Open Source Contribution

How to Get Started with Open Source Contribution

Lets Code•December 8, 2025

Open source contribution is one of the best ways to grow as a developer, build a strong portfolio, learn from real world projects, and collaborate with a global community. Whether you are a student, early career professional, or someone looking to switch into tech, contributing to open source can accelerate your learning and create new opportunities.

This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to get started with open source contribution in a practical and human friendly way.

What is Open Source

Open source refers to software whose source code is publicly available and can be viewed, modified, and distributed by anyone. Open source projects are typically maintained by communities of developers who collaborate to improve the software.

Popular examples include Linux, React, Kubernetes, TensorFlow, VS Code, and thousands of community driven tools on GitHub and GitLab.

Why You Should Contribute to Open Source

  1. Improve your coding and problem solving skills
  2. Gain real world development experience
  3. Build a strong public portfolio on GitHub
  4. Learn collaboration tools like Git, GitHub, and code reviews
  5. Network with global developers and maintainers
  6. Increase chances of getting hired by top companies

Prerequisites Before You Start

You do not need to be an expert to contribute but having these basics will help.

  1. Basic knowledge of any programming language
  2. Understanding of Git and GitHub
  3. Familiarity with terminal or command line
  4. Willingness to learn and explore documentation

Step by Step Guide to Start Open Source Contribution

Step 1: Choose Your Area of Interest

Pick a domain that matches your skills or curiosity such as

  1. Web Development
  2. AI and Machine Learning
  3. Data Science
  4. DevOps
  5. Mobile Development
  6. UI and UX
  7. Documentation and Technical Writing

Choosing the right area makes your journey enjoyable and sustainable.

Step 2: Create and Optimize Your GitHub Profile

Your GitHub profile is your open source identity. Make sure to

  1. Add a professional profile picture
  2. Write a clear bio
  3. Pin your best repositories
  4. Add a detailed README to your profile

This builds credibility when maintainers review your contributions.

Some awesome github profile readme templates

Step 3: Learn Git and GitHub Basics

Important concepts to understand

  1. Forking a repository
  2. Cloning a project
  3. Creating branches
  4. Committing changes
  5. Creating pull requests
  6. Resolving merge conflicts

Spend time practicing these using small projects.

Complete Git and GitHub Tutorial

Step 4: Find Beginner Friendly Open Source Projects

Search for projects that welcome beginners. Look for labels like

  1. good first issue
  2. beginner friendly
  3. help wanted
  4. documentation

Platforms to discover projects

  1. GitHub Explore
  2. First Timers Only
  3. Up For Grabs
  4. Good First Issue
  5. CodeTriage

Step 5: Understand the Project

Before making any change

  1. Read the README file carefully
  2. Study the contribution guidelines
  3. Check existing issues and discussions
  4. Run the project locally if possible

This helps you avoid mistakes and follow project standards.

Step 6: Start with Small Contributions

As a beginner, focus on simple tasks such as

  1. Fixing typos
  2. Improving documentation
  3. Updating broken links
  4. Enhancing comments
  5. Minor bug fixes

These small steps build your confidence and trust within the community.

Step 7: Make Your First Pull Request

Process overview

  1. Fork the repository
  2. Clone it to your system
  3. Create a new branch
  4. Make your changes
  5. Commit with a clear message
  6. Push changes
  7. Create a pull request

Always be polite and open to feedback from maintainers.

Best Open Source Contribution Programs

Participating in structured programs can provide guidance and mentorship.

  1. Google Summer of Code
  2. Outreachy
  3. Hacktoberfest
  4. Major League Hacking Fellowship
  5. Season of Docs
  6. Linux Foundation Mentorship
  7. GirlScript Summer of Code
  8. Google Season of Code
  9. GitHub Campus Experts
  10. KDE Summer of Code
  11. Red Hat Open Source Contest
  12. FOSSASIA Codeheat
  13. Wikimedia Outreach Program
  14. NASA International Space Apps Challenge

These programs help you gain exposure and paid opportunities in some cases.

Essential Resources for Open Source Beginners

Learning Platforms

  1. GitHub Docs
  2. freeCodeCamp
  3. The Odin Project
  4. Open Source Guides by GitHub
  5. Coursera and YouTube tutorials

Communities

  1. Dev.to
  2. Reddit open source groups
  3. Discord developer servers
  4. LinkedIn tech communities
  5. Twitter open source circles

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Not reading contribution guidelines
  2. Making large changes without discussion
  3. Ignoring code style rules
  4. Spamming pull requests
  5. Lack of communication with maintainers

How to Stay Consistent in Open Source

  1. Set weekly contribution goals
  2. Follow projects you like
  3. Engage in discussions
  4. Participate in community events
  5. Track your progress

Consistency matters more than perfection.

Real Benefits You Will See Over Time

  1. Improved coding confidence
  2. Strong developer network
  3. Better understanding of large codebases
  4. Increased job opportunities
  5. Recognition in the tech community

AT Last!

Getting started with open source contribution might feel intimidating at first, but every expert was once a beginner. Start small, stay curious, respect the community, and keep learning continuously.

Your first contribution could be a simple documentation fix, but it is the beginning of a powerful journey that can shape your entire tech career.

If you are serious about growing as a developer, open source is one of the most valuable paths you can take.

Join Lets Code Open source community!

L

Lets Code

Contributing Writer

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