Open source projects power much of the modern software world, from Linux to Python to Kubernetes. Contributing to open source is a great way to improve your coding skills, collaborate with developers worldwide, and build a strong portfolio.
This guide covers everything you need to know to start contributing to open source, including:
- How to Find the Right Project – Explore GitHub, GitLab, and Open Source Initiative (OSI) projects.
- Understanding Open Source Licensing – Learn about MIT, GPL, Apache, and other licenses.
- Forking & Cloning Repositories – Get hands-on with Git workflows.
- Making Your First Contribution – Writing documentation, fixing bugs, and submitting pull requests.
- Engaging with the Community – Join discussions, review issues, and follow project guidelines.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced developer, contributing to open source can be rewarding and beneficial for your career.
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