Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Came here to say the first point: fix a bug!

Usually a team with a good lead will have a bug that’s not too hard, and will help the newcomer learn the codebase.

It’s easier to learn something when there’s a purpose than in the abstract. And a quick win is motivating.

For more senior developers, assigning a simple feature addition is another option. Eg, having a front end developer add a filter option to some search panel in an application. It may require some UI work, which has the added benefit of getting one involved with people on the UX side — helping to onboard in a team sense. It also may involve some server communication components. Either way, like Muir said — tug on one tiny leaf and you’ll find it is connected to all of nature. (Or something like that.) Similarly, investigate a bug or new feature and you’ll find it brings you through a large portion of the app’s infrastructure.



Consider applying for YC's Winter 2026 batch! Applications are open till Nov 10

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: