This is a guide for software developers who want to contribute to open source projects but don't know where to start. The author emphasizes that every contribution counts and can make a tangible difference in the quality of the software. The guide suggests five ways to get started: reporting bugs, writing documentation, attending virtual meetups, blogging about experiences with open source libraries, and starting with issues suitable for new contributors. The author encourages developers to introduce themselves to project contributors, express their interest in contributing, and ask for guidance on how to get started. They also stress the importance of having fun and enjoying the process of contributing to open source projects.