Technology
Is It Bad to Submit Big Pull Requests?
Is It Bad to Submit Big Pull Requests?
When discussing pull request (PR) submission practices, one of the most debated topics is the size of a single PR. Big PRs can be a double-edged sword, offering benefits in terms of efficient code management but simultaneously introducing potential challenges. This article aims to explore the detriments of submitting big pull requests to both internal products and open-source projects, emphasizing the importance of maintaining code review quality and efficiency.
The Disadvantages of Big Pull Requests
Weighing the Risks
One of the primary downsides of submitting big pull requests is the hidden complexity and defects. Large changes can obscure issues that may not be immediately apparent, leading to potential bugs or security vulnerabilities that might be overlooked during the review process. As the codebase grows, so does the risk of introducing compatibility issues or breaking other parts of the system. This can lead to lengthy and cumbersome code review processes.
Impact on Internal Products
When contributing to an internal product, submitting big pull requests can significantly impact the code review process. The review can become fatigue-inducing for the reviewers, as they must sift through a large amount of code in a single PR. This can lead to dilution of review quality as reviewers may rush to complete the review process. Additionally, the sheer volume of changes may make it difficult for other team members to understand the overall context and flow of the updates, potentially leading to confusion and misinterpretation.
Challenges in Open-Source Projects
Submitting big pull requests to open-source projects also presents its own set of challenges. While open-source projects appreciate contributions, they often have stringent review processes to ensure code quality and alignment with the project’s guidelines. Large PRs can be quickly rejected due to their complexity, making it harder for contributors to see their work in the final product. The community may perceive large contributions as overwhelming, reducing the likelihood of acceptance and incorporating the changes into the project.
Best Practices for Submitting Pull Requests
Breaking Down Changes
To mitigate the risks of submitting big pull requests, it is essential to break down changes into smaller, more manageable units. This approach allows for chunked reviews that are easier to process. Smaller PRs can be reviewed and merged more quickly, reducing the overall review time and improving the efficiency of the development process. Each PR should focus on a single feature or fix, clearly documenting the changes and their rationale.
Documentation and Context
Comprehensive documentation and clear context are crucial in PRs. Providing detailed descriptions of the changes, including the motivation behind them and any potential impacts, helps reviewers better understand the PR. Including relevant screenshots, diagrams, or mock-ups can further illustrate the changes, ensuring that the PR is well-received and understood.
Collaboration and Communication
Effective collaboration and communication with the review team are vital. Regular conversations and feedback sessions can address concerns and ensure that the PR aligns with the project’s goals. By fostering open lines of communication, contributors can make necessary adjustments and ensure that their contributions are well-received.
Conclusion
While big pull requests can offer benefits in terms of efficient code submission and maintenance, the potential downsides in terms of hidden complexity, code review fatigue, and rejection by open-source communities outweigh these advantages. By adopting best practices such as breaking down changes, providing clear documentation, and maintaining open lines of communication, contributors can ensure that their PRs are well-structured, efficient, and accepted into the codebase.