Learn LLVM

A practical path for getting oriented, building LLVM, and making a first contribution.

Start with official docs, a few useful talks, and the core papers. Use the community links when you get stuck.

Start Here

Follow these in order if you are new. You can send a first patch before reading every paper.

1. Orient to LLVM

Start with official docs, then read the core paper for the big picture.

DocsGetting Started / Tutorials Official starting point for new LLVM users DocsLLVM Tutorial: Table of Contents Hands-on tutorial series for using LLVM PaperLLVM: A compilation framework for lifelong program analysis & transformation Core paper on LLVM IR and the compiler framework

2. Build and Test Locally

Set up a checkout you can build and test.

DocsGetting Started with the LLVM System Prerequisites, checkout, configuration, and first commands VideoUnderstanding the LLVM build Build layout, options, and common workflows DocsLLVM Testing Guide How to run focused tests DocsHow to Submit an LLVM Bug Report What maintainers need when something fails

3. Make a First Contribution

Start small and learn the review process.

GuideMyFirstTypoFix Official first contribution walkthrough DocsContributing to LLVM Contribution expectations and review flow DocsLLVM GitHub User Guide GitHub workflow and code review CommunityWhere to ask project questions Current Discord, Discourse, office hours, and sync-up entry points

4. Pick a Project Track

After the basics, choose one area to follow.

VideoGetting Started With LLVM: Basics Recorded beginner tutorial from the Developers' Meeting archive VideoHands-on Using Clang as a library Clang APIs and tooling-oriented workflows VideoMLIR: Multi-Level Intermediate Representation for Compiler Infrastructure Original EuroLLVM keynote introducing MLIR PaperMLIR: A Compiler Infrastructure for the End of Moore's Law Architecture paper for dialects, transformations, and lowering

Foundational Papers

A short list of papers that explain the main systems.

LLVM Architecture

The best single paper for the LLVM architecture.

PaperLLVM: A compilation framework for lifelong program analysis & transformation

Clang Context

A short report on Clang's early maturity.

ReportClang/LLVM Maturity Report

MLIR Context

Start with the infrastructure paper, then read Structured Operations for tensor work.

PaperMLIR: A Compiler Infrastructure for the End of Moore's Law PaperStructured Operations

Reference Shelf

Useful links while you work.

Core Reference

APIs, source layout, and LLVM IR.

DocsProgrammer's ManualCore APIs, source layout, and C++ conventions DocsLLVM Language Reference ManualReference for LLVM IR syntax and semantics

Ask for Help

Use these when you are blocked or unsure where to ask.

ChatLLVM Discord #beginnersDirect channel for newcomer questions on the official LLVM Discord ForumLLVM Discourse BeginnersBeginner questions and answers on Discourse CommunityCommunity channelsDiscourse, Discord, office hours, and calendar links DocsGetting InvolvedOfficial index for forums, Discord, office hours, and sync-ups

Foundation Support

Programs for students, mentors, and community work.

ProgramGrants, scholarships, and mentorshipLLVM Foundation support programs ProgramLLVM Foundation ProgramsEducation, community health, infrastructure, diversity, and grants

Explore Related Library Views

Beginner tutorials LLVM build First contribution Clang tooling MLIR tutorials