How to Sign Up for GitHub

GitHub is a free tool for managing and sharing code. We will use it to:

  • Access assignments and starter code
  • Submit your work
  • Collaborate with classmates

Follow these steps to create your GitHub account and prepare it for course use.

Step 1: Create a GitHub Account

  1. Go to https://github.com
  2. Click Sign up (top-right corner)
  3. Fill out the form:
    • Username: Use your real name or initials if possible (e.g., judy-smith, not xxdragonrider)
    • Email: Use your college email if available (e.g., yourname@kenyon.edu)
    • Password: Choose a strong password
  4. Click Create account
  5. Complete the captcha to verify you’re human
  6. Choose the free plan (you can always upgrade later)

Step 2: Verify Your Email

  • GitHub will send a verification email to the address you used
  • Go to your inbox and click the verification link

Important: If you don’t verify your email, GitHub features (like GitHub Classroom) may not work.

Step 3: Set Up Your Profile (Optional but Recommended)

  • Add your full name
  • Upload a profile picture
  • You can skip adding bio or location for now

Step 4: Set Up SSH

SSH allows you to connect to GitHub from your computer securely.

Follow the SSH setup instructions here

Step 5: Join Your Class via GitHub Classroom

When your instructor gives you a link to an assignment (e.g., Lab 0), click it:

  • It will automatically create a private copy of the assignment for you
  • You’ll work in your own repository
  • You can use Git or GitHub Desktop to clone, edit, and push your work

Tips for Success

  • Use your college email so your instructor can find and invite you easily
  • Use a recognizable GitHub username (not anonymous or joke names)
  • Keep track of your login info (you’ll use it often!)
  • Don’t share private repo links with others — your code should be your own
Scroll to Top