---
title: "Contribute to open source"
url: "https://blog.beyondthecloud.dev/tips/contribute-to-open-source"
category: "DevOps & CLI"
tags: "git, best-practices"
published: "2026-07-26"
---

# Contribute to open source

The contribution loop on GitHub, end to end: identify the repository, fork it, branch, commit, push to your fork, and open a pull request against the upstream project.

Here is a quick tip showing how to contribute to an open-source project.

Recently, we wanted to change how one of the features of an open-source plugin (sfdx-hardis) works. For this example, we will use a general GitHub repository as the target project. See what steps have to be performed to include your changes.

### 1. Identify the repository

Locate the repository of the project you want to contribute to, typically on GitHub. Read the repository's README and CONTRIBUTING.md files for guidelines on how to contribute.

### 2. Fork the repository

Create a personal copy of the repository by clicking the "Fork" button on the repository page, then clone the forked repository to your local machine.

```bash
# Clone your forked repository
git clone https://github.com/your-username/project-name.git
cd project-name
```

### 3. Create a branch

Create a new branch for your changes to keep your work separate from the main branch.

```bash
git checkout -b feature/your-feature-name
```

### 4. Make, commit and push your changes

Implement the changes required for your feature or fix. Use the tools and development environment recommended in the project documentation.

```bash
# Make your changes and test them if possible
git add .
git commit -m "Description of the changes you made"

# Push changes to your fork
git push origin feature/your-feature-name
```

### 5. Create a pull request

Navigate to the original repository and create a pull request (PR) from your branch — yes, it will be visible there.

### 6. Respond to feedback

Maintain communication with the project maintainers. Address any feedback or requested changes to your PR promptly.

### 7. Finalize the contribution

Once approved, your changes will be merged into the main branch. Celebrate your contribution to the open-source community!