Step 8: Pull Requests
Pull Requests (PRs) are how you propose changes to a project on GitHub. They let others review your code before merging it into the main codebase.
What is a Pull Request?
A Pull Request is a request to merge your branch into another branch (usually main). It's called a "pull request" because you're asking the project maintainer to "pull" your changes.
The Pull Request Workflow
- Create a new branch for your changes
- Make commits on that branch
- Push the branch to GitHub
- Open a Pull Request on GitHub
- Team reviews your code
- Make any requested changes
- PR gets merged into main!
Why Use Pull Requests?
- •Code Review — Team members can review and discuss changes before merging
- •Quality Control — Catch bugs and improve code quality
- •Documentation — PRs create a record of what changed and why
- •Collaboration — Easy way for teams to work together
How to Create a Pull Request
1. Push your branch to GitHub
After committing changes to your branch:
2. Go to GitHub
Visit your repository on GitHub. You'll see a yellow banner with a button to "Compare & pull request" — click it!
3. Write a clear title and description
Good PR Title Example:
"Add user login feature"
Good PR Description:
- Added login form component
- Implemented authentication logic
- Added tests for login feature
4. Create pull request
Click the green "Create pull request" button. You're done!
Try It Yourself
Create a test branch in your repository, make a small change (like updating the README), push it, and create your first Pull Request. Then you can merge it yourself to see the full workflow!
Quick Summary
- Pull Requests let teams review code before merging
- Push your branch to GitHub first
- Write clear titles and descriptions
- PRs improve code quality and collaboration