hashnode-blogs

Open Source & Me

What is open source?

Basically, they are free pieces of code, packages, and software that people use in daily life without paying for them. #### examples: VLC media player, Linux, ReactJS, VScode, etc.

The Idea

The idea here is that these open source things are written by developers all around the world and If you have the necessary skills* you can contribute too and make the world a better place by improving these softwares.
There are approx 200,000 open source projects out there.

The Skills & Contribution

the no-code way: provide feedback, find out the bugs in the software, or suggest some cool features. It is as important as writing codes.
the code way: search the open source projects on GitHub which meet your skills and check out their issues tab.

list of some open source projects
another list of open source projects

Mistakes I made, when I was getting started

I was not aware of the no-code way and thought I’m not ready for this.
I never checked the issues tab in those repositories.
Even if I checked, I never read about any issues and tried to understand them.
I was not aware that, I can be a part of the discussion on any issue with my current knowledge and experience.
I thought it would be quick and easy to contribute in a code way. Actually, contributing to a good project is matter of weeks and months.
I never joined any of their community (discord, slack etc) and asked anything.
I was not consistent and persistent.

Why it’s important to contribute?

Humanity: You are using something for free, so you must feel grateful and try to contribute.
Community: you get to talk to people all around the world, and believe me it feels awesome.
Connections & Job opportunities: you get to make connections and connections can be a great source for jobs.

My open source journey

I don’t remember exactly when I came to know about open source. But I can put my stake on GSOC and any random YouTuber guy some 2 years ago.
I told you about mistakes I made, which you can prevent.
5 months ago, I came under influence of Kunal Kushwaha, who taught me the concept of learning in public, making connections and building communities by sharing what you are working on and helping others.
Recently, I have started an open source project algebra-for-you, you can contribute in it if you want.
Currently, I’m not an open source master but trying my best.

I hope you got to know a little bit about open source.