GitHub has introduced significant updates to its pull request 'Files changed' page, which are currently available in public preview. These enhancements aim to improve user experience by offering rich diffs for images and markdown files, better file ordering, and overall performance improvements.

The new features allow users to switch between a source view and a rich preview for markdown and .svg files. For image comparisons, three options are provided: 2-up, swipe, and onion skin. Additionally, the organization of files in the tree view has been refined so that folders appear before files at the same level, making navigation easier.

Performance upgrades have also been made to address issues like expanding diff hunks failing due to certain characters in file paths. The updates ensure that navigating to a collapsed file will automatically expand it. Furthermore, enhancements have been implemented to reduce re-renders when working with larger pull requests.

Despite these improvements, GitHub acknowledges some limitations still exist. For instance, users cannot review a single commit or apply multiple suggested changes at once. The preview currently only shows the first 300 files of a pull request but offers an option to revert back to the classic page for larger requests.

Developers interested in trying out these new features can do so by selecting the 'Try the new experience' link on existing pull request pages. Feedback from users is encouraged as GitHub continues to refine these updates based on community input.

Original article (github)

The article provides an update on GitHub's new features and improvements to its pull request system, which can be beneficial to developers and users of the platform.

Actionable Information: The article offers clear instructions on how users can access and try out these new features. By selecting the "Try the new experience" link, developers can actively engage with the updated pull request page and explore the enhancements. This provides an immediate action for readers to take, allowing them to experience the improvements firsthand.

Educational Depth: While the article does not delve into extensive technical details, it provides a good overview of the key enhancements made to the pull request system. It explains the new features, such as rich diffs for images and markdown files, improved file organization, and performance upgrades. This gives readers a deeper understanding of the changes and their potential impact on the user experience.

Personal Relevance: For developers and GitHub users, these updates are highly relevant. The improvements aim to enhance their workflow and make pull request reviews more efficient and user-friendly. The ability to switch between source view and rich preview, compare images with different options, and navigate files more easily can directly impact their daily tasks and overall productivity.

Public Service Function: The article primarily serves as an informative update for the GitHub community, rather than providing direct public service functions. However, by highlighting the improvements and encouraging user feedback, it contributes to the ongoing development and refinement of the platform, which can ultimately benefit a wider audience.

Practicality of Advice: The advice provided is practical and actionable. Developers can easily follow the steps to access the new features and explore their potential benefits. The article also acknowledges limitations and provides an alternative option for larger pull requests, ensuring that users are aware of any potential challenges.

Long-Term Impact: The long-term impact of these updates is focused on improving the user experience and efficiency of the pull request process. By implementing these enhancements, GitHub aims to create a more seamless and productive environment for developers, which can have lasting positive effects on their workflow and collaboration.

Emotional/Psychological Impact: The article does not explicitly address emotional or psychological aspects. However, by offering improvements that aim to streamline and enhance the user experience, it can indirectly contribute to a more positive and efficient work environment, potentially reducing stress and improving overall job satisfaction for developers.

Clickbait/Ad-Driven Words: The article does not employ clickbait or sensational language. It presents the information in a straightforward and professional manner, focusing on the facts and benefits of the new features.

Missed Chances to Teach or Guide: While the article provides a good overview, it could have included more detailed explanations of the technical improvements and their potential impact. Additionally, providing specific examples or case studies of how these enhancements have benefited users could have added further value and context.

In summary, the article offers practical steps for users to engage with GitHub's new features, provides educational depth on the improvements, and has personal relevance for developers. It could benefit from more detailed explanations and real-world examples to enhance its educational value.

"These enhancements aim to improve user experience..." - This sentence uses virtue signaling. It makes it sound like GitHub is doing something good and helpful for users, but it doesn't say how much better the changes are or if they really help everyone.

"The new features allow users to switch between..." - Here, the word "allow" is a trick. It makes it seem like GitHub is giving users a special power, but really, users should always be able to choose how they see things.

"For instance, users cannot review a single commit..." - GitHub tells us what users can't do, but it doesn't say why. This makes users feel like they are missing out on something, which is a trick to make them want the new features more.

"Developers interested in trying out these new features..." - The word "interested" is a soft word. It makes it seem like developers want to try the new things, but it doesn't say if they really need or like them.

"Feedback from users is encouraged..." - This sentence is in passive voice. It doesn't say who is encouraging feedback. This hides who is in charge and makes it seem like GitHub cares about what users think, even if it might not be true.

The text expresses a range of emotions, primarily excitement and anticipation, with a subtle hint of relief and acknowledgment of ongoing challenges. These emotions are conveyed through the language and tone used to describe the new features and improvements.

Excitement is evident in the way the updates are presented as significant enhancements aimed at improving the user experience. Words like "rich diffs," "better file ordering," and "performance improvements" create a sense of anticipation and eagerness for users to try out these new features. The mention of "switching between views" and "three options for image comparisons" further emphasizes the variety and flexibility offered, which is likely to excite developers who value customization and enhanced functionality.

Relief is subtly conveyed through the acknowledgment of resolved issues. Phrases like "addressing issues" and "ensuring that navigating to a collapsed file will automatically expand it" suggest that previous problems have been fixed, providing a sense of relief for users who may have experienced these difficulties in the past.

The text also acknowledges ongoing limitations, which creates a sense of transparency and honesty. By admitting that users cannot review a single commit or apply multiple suggested changes at once, and that the preview has a file limit, GitHub demonstrates a willingness to be open about the work-in-progress nature of these updates. This transparency may build trust with users, showing that GitHub is committed to continuous improvement and values user feedback.

The writer's use of emotion is subtle but effective. By focusing on the benefits and improvements, the text creates a positive tone that inspires action. The language is carefully chosen to highlight the advantages of the new features, making them sound appealing and desirable. The use of phrases like "rich diffs" and "better file ordering" is an example of emotional language, as these terms imply an enhancement of quality and user experience.

Additionally, the writer employs a persuasive technique by providing a clear call to action. The instruction to "try out these new features" and the encouragement to provide feedback are powerful tools to engage the reader and inspire them to take an active role in the development process. This interactive approach not only increases user engagement but also demonstrates GitHub's commitment to user-centric design and continuous improvement.

In summary, the text skillfully employs emotion to guide the reader's reaction, creating a positive and engaged response. By expressing excitement and acknowledging improvements, the writer inspires users to try out the new features, while the transparent acknowledgment of limitations builds trust and encourages ongoing feedback. This strategic use of emotion and persuasive techniques effectively communicates GitHub's commitment to user experience and continuous development.