Good First Issue

“Good first issue” usually means low-risk, well-scoped, and maintainers are willing to guide. It’s the best entry point for your first PR.

Where to Search #

• GitHub issue labels: good first issue, help wanted
• GitHub topics: search by stack (Python/JavaScript/Go/etc.)
• Event collections (e.g., Hacktoberfest)

How to Pick the Right Issue #

Use this quick checklist:

• Maintainer responded within 30 days
• Repro steps or acceptance criteria are clear
• The codebase has a contributing guide and CI
• The issue is not blocked by large refactors

A Simple Execution Plan #

1. Comment: “I’d like to take this—any pointers?”
2. Fork and run the project locally.
3. Implement the smallest correct fix.
4. Add/adjust tests if the repo expects them.
5. Open PR with a clean explanation.

References #

1. GitHub Docs: Finding ways to contribute to open source on GitHub
2. GitHub Open Source Guides
3. The Linux Foundation: Open Source Guides
4. Open Source Initiative: Licenses
5. SPDX License List
6. choosealicense.com
7. Hacktoberfest
8. Outreachy