Nov 19, 2024

FAQs for Getting Started

Quick Answers to Common Questions for New Contributors

This FAQ guide is designed to address common issues and concerns that contributors may face when getting started with Reality AI Lab. Whether you’re encountering setup challenges or unsure about project requirements, this resource has you covered.

1. General Questions

Q: What is Reality AI Lab?

A: Reality AI Lab is an open-source initiative that develops AI tools for education and career development. Our flagship projects include Marvel (AI Teaching Assistant) and Sky (AI Career Coach).

Q: Who can contribute to Reality AI Lab?

A: Anyone! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, we welcome contributors from all backgrounds, including developers, educators, researchers, and designers.

Q: Where can I find the projects?

A: All projects are hosted on our GitHub organization page.

2. Getting Started with Contributions

Q: I don’t know how to start contributing. What should I do?

A: Follow these steps:

  1. Visit the Issues section of any project repository on GitHub.
  2. Look for issues labeled good first issue or help wanted.
  3. Assign yourself an issue or comment on it to express interest.
  4. Read the setup instructions in the repository’s README.md file.

Q: How do I set up my development environment?

A:

  1. Clone the repository using:
  2. bash
    Copy code
    git clone <https://github.com/RealityAILab/project-name.git>

  3. Install dependencies as outlined in the README.md file (e.g., pip install -r requirements.txt for Python projects).
  4. Run the project locally using the provided commands.

For detailed steps, refer to Article 1: Setting Up Your Development Environment.

Q: What programming languages are supported?

A: Supported languages depend on the project. Common languages include:

  • Python: For back-end AI and data processing.
  • JavaScript/TypeScript: For front-end interfaces and integrations.
  • Markdown: For documentation.

Check the specific repository for additional details.

3. Technical Issues

Q: I can’t clone the repository. What should I do?

A:

  • Ensure you have Git installed. Check by running:
  • bash
    Copy code
    git --version

  • Verify your internet connection and access rights to the repository.
  • If it’s a private repository, confirm that you’ve been granted access.
  • Use SSH cloning as an alternative:
  • bash
    Copy code
    git clone git@github.com:RealityAILab/project-name.git

Q: I’m encountering errors when installing dependencies.

A:

  • Check the version of the programming language you’re using (e.g., Python 3.9+).
  • Ensure all required tools are installed (e.g., pip, npm).
  • Look for specific dependency instructions in the requirements.txt or package.json file.
  • If the issue persists, post the error message in the project’s forum or Discord channel for assistance.

Q: I’m getting merge conflicts in my pull request. How do I resolve them?

A:

  1. Fetch the latest changes from the original repository:
  2. bash
    Copy code
    git fetch upstream
    git merge upstream/main

  3. Manually resolve conflicts in the affected files. Look for conflict markers like:
  4. css
    Copy code
    <<<<<<< HEAD
    Your changes
    =======
    Original content
    >>>>>>> upstream/main

  5. Once resolved, stage the changes and commit:
  6. bash
    Copy code
    git add .
    git commit -m "Resolve merge conflicts"

4. Submitting Contributions

Q: How do I submit my contribution?

A:

  1. Fork the repository to your GitHub account.
  2. Create a new branch for your work:
  3. bash
    Copy code
    git checkout -b feature/my-new-feature

  4. Make your changes and commit them:
  5. bash
    Copy code
    git commit -m "Add feature X"

  6. Push your branch to your fork:
  7. bash
    Copy code
    git push origin feature/my-new-feature

  8. Open a pull request (PR) on the original repository.

Q: What if my pull request is not accepted?

A: Don’t be discouraged!

  • Read the feedback provided by maintainers and apply the necessary changes.
  • Ask questions if anything is unclear.
  • Resubmit your pull request once revisions are complete.

5. Support and Help

Q: Where can I ask for help?

A:

Q: What if I encounter a bug in the project?

A:

  1. Check the Issues section to see if the bug has already been reported.
  2. If not, create a new issue with:
    • A clear description of the bug.
    • Steps to reproduce it.
    • Logs or screenshots, if available.

6. Advanced Questions

Q: Can I propose a new feature or project?

A: Absolutely!

  • Open a new issue in the relevant repository, labeled feature request.
  • Provide a detailed description of your proposal, including its purpose and potential impact.

Q: How do I become a maintainer, manager or mentor?

A:

7. Additional Resources

Got more questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out on our forums or Discord channel. The Reality AI Lab community is here to help you succeed!

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