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GitHub streaks: how they work and how to keep one going

Updated

GitHub used to show your current and longest contribution streak under the contribution graph. It removed both in 2016, so if you want a streak counter today you need a tool that reads your contribution calendar and counts consecutive days for you.

What counts as a contribution

GitHub's contribution graph counts commits to a repository's default branch (or gh-pages), opening issues and pull requests, and submitting pull request reviews. Commits only count if the email on the commit is linked to your GitHub account. Private activity counts too if you turn on "Private contributions" in your profile settings.

How DevTrack counts your streak

  • Any day with at least one contribution is an active day.
  • Days are counted in your time zone (set it in Settings), so a late-night commit lands on the right day.
  • Your streak stays alive until the end of the next day: if you coded yesterday but not yet today, you still have today to keep it.
  • A streak freeze covers a rest day so the streak doesn't reset. You can use one from the Activity page.

How to keep a streak without burning out

  • Make the daily minimum small: one meaningful commit, review or issue.
  • Keep a scratch or notes repository for days with no project work.
  • Plan rest days and spend a freeze on them instead of grinding.
  • Set a weekly goal on top, so the streak isn't the only target.

You can see your current and longest streak on your DevTrack profile, add a streak badge to your README, and compare it with others on the leaderboard.

Quick answers

Does GitHub still show contribution streaks?
No. GitHub removed the current and longest streak counters from profiles in 2016. Third-party tools such as DevTrack calculate streaks from your contribution calendar.
Why didn't my commit count toward my GitHub streak?
Commits only count if they are on the default branch (or gh-pages) and the commit email is linked to your GitHub account. Private contributions only show if you enable them in your profile settings.
What is a streak freeze?
On DevTrack, a streak freeze covers a day without contributions so your streak does not reset. It is meant for planned rest days.

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