questions on starting github contribution

[akashgoudsidduluri]

what skills should a beginner have to start contributing

[pasindupiumal03]

@akashgoudsidduluri

🔹 What skills should a beginner have to start contributing?

You don’t need to be an expert. Start with the basics:

Git & GitHub → know how to clone, commit, push, and make a pull request.

Reading code & docs → be comfortable exploring a project’s README and issues.

Communication → ask clear questions and explain your changes.

Even fixing typos, improving docs, or testing code counts as contributing. You’ll learn the rest as you go. ♥️

[junaiddeveloper786]

@akashgoudsidduluri

You don’t need to be an expert to start contributing — but having some foundational skills makes the journey smoother:

1. Basic Git & GitHub Knowledge

Understanding git clone, git add, git commit, git push, and pull requests.

Knowing how to fork a repo, work on a branch, and make a PR.

Familiarity with resolving simple merge conflicts.

2. Programming Fundamentals

Comfort with at least one programming language (JavaScript, Python, Java, etc.).

Ability to read code, not just write — so you can understand other people’s projects.

3. Documentation & Communication

Writing clear commit messages.

Improving docs, READMEs, or adding code comments.

Being polite and professional in issues and PR discussions.

4. Problem-Solving Mindset

Breaking down issues into smaller steps.

Reading existing issues and trying to replicate bugs locally.

Not being afraid to ask clarifying questions.

5. Optional but Valuable Skills

Markdown: to write good README files.

Basic testing: knowing how to run or write simple test cases.

Using tools like GitHub Actions, linters, or code formatters (bonus).

In short: A beginner just needs basic Git/GitHub knowledge, one programming language, and willingness to learn. Start small (fixing typos, improving docs, solving beginner-friendly issues), and your skills will grow with every contribution.