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Open Source on GitHub

Welcome to the Git & GitHub Tutorial Series by CodeHarborHub. Contributing to open-source projects is a powerful way to learn, showcase your skills, and collaborate with the global developer community.

1. Understanding Open Source​

Open-source projects are publicly accessible repositories that anyone can contribute to.
Benefits of contributing:

  • Gain real-world experience
  • Improve coding and collaboration skills
  • Build a professional portfolio
  • Network with developers globally
  • Contribute to tools you use daily

2. Forking a Repository​

To contribute safely, you fork a repository — creating your own copy to work on.

Steps to Fork​

  1. Go to the original repository on GitHub

  2. Click Fork → creates a copy under your account

  3. Clone your fork locally:

    git clone https://github.com/your-username/forked-repo.git

  4. Add the original repo as upstream to stay updated:

    git remote add upstream https://github.com/original-owner/repo.git

Forking ensures your changes won’t affect the main project until they are reviewed.

3. Creating a Pull Request (PR)​

A Pull Request lets you submit your changes for review and merge into the main project.

Workflow for Pull Requests​

  1. Create a feature branch:

    git checkout -b feature/fix-typo

  2. Make changes and commit:

    git add .
    git commit -m "Fix typo in README"

  3. Push your branch:

    git push origin feature/fix-typo

  4. Open a Pull Request on GitHub:

    • Select your branch and the original repo’s main branch
    • Add a descriptive title and explanation

  5. Collaborate with reviewers and make requested changes

  6. Once approved, your PR can be merged

Always keep your branch focused on a single task or fix.

4. Managing Issues​

Issues are used to track bugs, features, or discussions.

  • Find issues labeled good first issue → ideal for beginners

  • Comment on an issue if you want to claim it

  • Reference issues in your PR using #issue-number Example:

    Fixes #23 - Corrected typo in documentation

Using issues helps maintain clarity and organization in large projects.

5. Contributing Guidelines​

Many repositories include a CONTRIBUTING.md file:

  • Follow project-specific rules
  • Run tests before submitting PRs
  • Respect code style and linting rules
  • Include descriptive commit messages
  • Engage politely in reviews and discussions

Reading guidelines before contributing prevents rejection of PRs and builds trust with maintainers.

6. Best Practices for Open Source Contribution​

  • Start small: Fix typos, documentation, or small bugs

  • Communicate: Always comment on issues or PRs before starting

  • Sync fork: Regularly update your fork from upstream:

    git fetch upstream
    git checkout main
    git merge upstream/main

  • Test thoroughly before submitting changes

  • Respect the project’s code of conduct

7. Example Contribution Workflow​

# Step 1: Fork and clone
git clone https://github.com/your-username/forked-repo.git
cd forked-repo

# Step 2: Sync fork with upstream
git fetch upstream
git checkout main
git merge upstream/main

# Step 3: Create feature branch
git checkout -b feature/add-new-function

# Step 4: Make changes and commit
git add .
git commit -m "Add new function for date formatting"

# Step 5: Push branch and open PR
git push origin feature/add-new-function

This workflow ensures contributions are organized, conflict-free, and professional.

8. Summary​

TopicKey Points
ForkingCreate your own copy of a repository to work on safely
Pull RequestsSubmit code changes for review and merge
IssuesTrack bugs, features, and discussions
Contributing GuidelinesFollow project-specific rules and standards
Sync ForkKeep your fork updated with upstream changes
Best PracticesStart small, test, communicate, and respect code of conduct

Next Steps​

After learning open-source contribution, you’re ready to advance your Git & GitHub skills:

  • Explore GitHub Portfolio Projects
  • Engage in Hacktoberfest or community-driven events
  • Build confidence as a long-term contributor

Additional Resources​

💙 This tutorial is part of the CodeHarborHub Git & GitHub series — empowering developers to contribute confidently to open-source projects worldwide.