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Pull Requests Are for Humans

The article argues that pull requests should be treated as human collaboration tools, not just code review checklists. It emphasizes the importance of clear communication, context, and empathy when creating and reviewing pull requests.

Background

- The author, Ryan McCue, is a prominent developer (lead of the WordPress REST API) writing from experience in large open-source projects. - A "pull request" (PR) is the standard way developers propose code changes on platforms like GitHub; the article argues the workflow has become overly mechanical and automated. - Key context: The rise of "AI code review" tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT-based reviewers) and the trend of requiring PRs to pass rigid CI checks and style linters before human review. - The piece pushes back against treating software development like an assembly line — PRs exist for discussion, knowledge sharing, and team collaboration, not just efficient code shipping.

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