5 things I learned from my first open source contribution¶
Description
When the pandemic hit and lockdown started, I finally found the time to work on an open source contribution I had at the back of my mind for some time. Even though I had written open source documentation as part of my job for over 2 years, going out there and proposing a code change for a project whose members I didn’t know was very much out of my comfort zone.
My talk is a reflection on this open source contribution, sharing lessons learned, but also sharing advice and resources for those looking to start contributing to open source projects. I’ve summed this up into 5 points:
Contribute to something you care about.
- How to find something you care about.
- Take part in open source initiatives and events.
Having mental space and support is important.
- Contributing is great, but not at the expense of all your free time and mental health.
- Give yourself the time to learn about the new project.
- How to find the time to contribute.
How to communicate with people you’ve never met.
- Why communication is important and how it can go wrong.
- Learn about community practices.
- Be mindful of how you write issues and comments.
Ask for help if you need it.
- How to find help when you’re stuck.
- How to acknowledge someone’s help.
Open source contributions are valuable.
- Looking at the impact your change has on the community.
- How to use contributions as part of your professional portfolio.
- Conference: Write the Docs Australia
- Year: 2020
