Topic guide
Developer Tools
Source-backed developer-tool guides for safer GitHub automation, code scanning, releases, and repository workflows.
GitHub Copilot Agent Plugins 1.0: How to Install and Use Them
How to install and manage GitHub Copilot's new Agent Plugins 1.0 in VS Code and Copilot CLI, and whether your existing Copilot setup still works.
How to Organize GitHub Release Notes With PR Labels
Configure GitHub generated release notes to group merged pull requests into clear categories, then review the draft before publishing.
How to Let Dependabot Open Safe Update Pull Requests on GitHub
Enable Dependabot security updates and GitHub Actions version updates, then review the pull requests with the checks that matter before merging.
How to Check That GitHub CodeQL Default Setup Is Actually Running
Verify GitHub CodeQL default setup, inspect its first analysis, and respond safely when a scan is missing or incomplete.
Deploy From GitHub Actions to AWS Without Long-Lived Keys
Use GitHub Actions OpenID Connect and a narrowly scoped AWS IAM role to deploy with temporary credentials instead of saved access keys.
How to Require a Pull Request Review Before Merging on GitHub
Set a GitHub rule that requires an approving pull request review before changes can merge into your main branch, then test it safely.
How to Run Node.js Tests Automatically on Every GitHub Pull Request
Set up a simple GitHub Actions workflow that installs your Node.js project, runs its tests on every pull request, and gives reviewers a useful check.
How to Turn On GitHub Code Scanning for an Existing Repository
A practical guide to enabling GitHub code scanning, reading the first results, and prioritizing real findings without rebuilding your CI.