Why does a repository need a CONTRIBUTING file?

GitHub and GitLab surface CONTRIBUTING.md when someone opens an issue or pull request. A clear guide reduces back-and-forth, sets expectations, and lowers the barrier for new contributors.

What is Conventional Commits?

Conventional Commits is a format like feat: add login that prefixes the commit type. It enables automated changelogs and semantic version bumps. The builder can include this convention if you enable it.

Should I include a code of conduct?

Yes for public projects. The builder adds a link to a CODE_OF_CONDUCT.md, commonly the Contributor Covenant, which signals a welcoming and harassment-free community.

What goes in the pull request section?

It explains forking, branching, keeping changes focused, writing tests, passing CI, and how reviews work, so contributors submit changes that are easy to merge.

Can I customize the coding standards?

Yes. Enter your language or stack and the builder references the relevant linters and formatters, for example ESLint and Prettier for JavaScript or Black for Python.

CONTRIBUTING.md Builder

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CONTRIBUTING.md Builder

A CONTRIBUTING.md file welcomes new contributors and tells them exactly how to participate. Hosting platforms surface it automatically when someone files an issue or pull request. This builder assembles a complete, well-structured guide from a few inputs, so your project ships clear expectations from day one.

How it works

The builder composes Markdown sections from your inputs and toggles. It always includes an introduction and a how-to-contribute overview, then conditionally adds: reporting bugs, requesting features, the development setup, the pull request workflow, coding standards keyed to your stack, a commit message convention (optionally Conventional Commits), and a code of conduct link. Each section is templated with sensible defaults you can edit after copying.

Tips, example, and notes

Keep the guide actionable. A strong pull request section reads like a checklist:

1. Fork the repo and create a branch from main.
2. Add tests for your change.
3. Ensure the test suite and linters pass.
4. Open a pull request describing the change and why.

Reference your actual tooling so contributors know what runs in CI. If you adopt Conventional Commits, pair it with an automated release tool. Link a real CODE_OF_CONDUCT.md rather than describing rules inline so the guide stays focused on the contribution mechanics.