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How do I get useful feedback on my side project?

Team FAQ: this question comes up often, so we've answered it below. Add your own experience, or a different view, in the comments.

"Looks good!" isn't helpful. How do you get feedback that actually improves your project?

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devlk Team·

Ask specific questions, make it easy to try, and tell people what kind of feedback you want.

When you share a project (here or anywhere):

  1. One-line summary: what it is and who it's for.
  2. A live link that works in seconds, with a demo login if needed.
  3. The code, if you want code feedback.
  4. Specific questions, for example:
    • "Is the sign-up flow clear?"
    • "How would you structure this API differently?"
    • "Does the README explain how to run it?"
    • "What would make you actually use this?"
  5. Your experience level, so people can pitch the feedback right.

When you receive feedback:

  • Thank people, even for criticism.
  • Ask follow-up questions instead of defending your choices.
  • Look for patterns: if three people mention the same problem, it's real.

Good places for feedback: the weekly Show your project Friday thread in c/showcase, open-source communities, and friends who match your target users.

Building a portfolio for job hunting? Read developer portfolio projects that impress hiring managers.

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