Where Do I Start?
The hardest part of open source is finding that first issue to work on. You don't need to build a new operating system; you just need to fix a small bug.
The Magic Label: "good first issue"
Maintainers use this label specifically for beginners. These tasks are usually well-defined, isolated, and not too complex.
Strategy 1: The Aggregators
Don't just search GitHub randomly. Use tools built to find beginner-friendly issues.
GoodFirstIssue.dev
Curates issues from popular repos. Filters by language (JavaScript, Python, Go).
CodeTriage
Pick your favorite repos and get one open issue sent to your inbox every day.
Up For Grabs
Specifically lists projects that have tasks specifically for new contributors.
GitHub Explore
The "For You" page of code. Great for finding trending projects in your stack.
Strategy 2: Scratch Your Own Itch
The best project to contribute to is one you already use.
Notice a bug? Don't just complain. Fix it.
Docs confusing? Rewrite them to be clearer.
Missing a feature? Build it (but ask first!).
at Function.Module._resolveFilename...
Before You Code
Read CONTRIBUTING.md
Every project has rules. Read them first or your PR might be ignored.
Check Existing PRs
Is someone else already working on it? Don't duplicate work.
Ask for Assignment
Comment on the issue: "Hi, I'd like to work on this!" and wait for approval.