Contribution submission guidelines
==================================

* Consider whether your new feature might be better suited as a plugin_. Folks
  are usually available in the `#pelican IRC channel`_ if help is needed to
  make that determination.
* `Create a new git branch`_ specific to your change (as opposed to making
  your commits in the master branch).
* **Don't put multiple fixes/features in the same branch / pull request.**
  For example, if you're hacking on a new feature and find a bugfix that
  doesn't *require* your new feature, **make a new distinct branch and pull
  request** for the bugfix.
* Adhere to PEP8 coding standards whenever possible.
* Check for unnecessary whitespace via ``git diff --check`` before committing.
* **Add docs and tests for your changes**.
* `Run all the tests`_ **on both Python 2.7+ and 3.2+** to ensure nothing was
  accidentally broken.
* First line of your commit message should start with present-tense verb, be 50
  characters or less, and include the relevant issue number(s) if applicable.
  *Example:* ``Ensure proper PLUGIN_PATH behavior. Refs #428.`` If the commit
  *completely fixes* an existing bug report, please use ``Fixes #585`` or ``Fix
  #585`` syntax (so the relevant issue is automatically closed upon PR merge).
* After the first line of the commit message, add a blank line and then a more
  detailed explanation (when relevant).
* If you have previously filed a GitHub issue and want to contribute code that
  addresses that issue, **please use** ``hub pull-request`` instead of using
  GitHub's web UI to submit the pull request. This isn't an absolute
  requirement, but makes the maintainers' lives much easier! Specifically:
  `install hub <https://github.com/defunkt/hub/#installation>`_ and then run
  `hub pull-request <https://github.com/defunkt/hub/#git-pull-request>`_ to
  turn your GitHub issue into a pull request containing your code.

Check out our `Git Tips`_ page or ask on the `#pelican IRC channel`_ if you
need assistance or have any questions about these guidelines.

.. _`plugin`: http://docs.getpelican.com/en/latest/plugins.html
.. _`#pelican IRC channel`: http://webchat.freenode.net/?channels=pelican&uio=d4
.. _`Create a new git branch`: https://github.com/getpelican/pelican/wiki/Git-Tips#making-your-changes
.. _`Run all the tests`: http://docs.getpelican.com/en/latest/contribute.html#running-the-test-suite
.. _`Git Tips`: https://github.com/getpelican/pelican/wiki/Git-Tips