How to Create a Pull Request Template on GitHub

Why do you need a pull request Template

Whether you're collaborating on a team or maintaining an open-source project, a pull request (PR) template helps maintain consistency and clarity. It gives contributors a structure to follow, outlines what reviewers should look out for, and helps keep your repo organized.

With all its benefits, many developers don’t realize how simple it is to set one up and this guide will walk you through it.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have:

• A GitHub account

• A repository you own or have write access to

How to add a Pull Request Template

1. Navigate to the repo where you want to add the template.

2. Click the Add file (+) button and choose Create new file.

   

3. In the filename input box, type: .github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE.md. The pull request template file has to be in the .github folder

   

4. Add your template content in Markdown. Here are a few examples to guide your template (content/.github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE at main · mdn/content, jargons.dev/.github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE.md at main · jargonsdev/jargons.dev)

5. Click on commit changes, write a short commit message (like add PR template), and commit

What’s next

The next time someone opens a pull request on your repo, they’ll see your template automatically pre-filled in the description box. You can always update the file later if your process changes.