Basic git commands

Git is a powerful and widely-used version control system that helps developers track changes in their code and collaborate efficiently with others. Here’s a guide to some of the most essential Git commands for beginners to get started.

Setup and Configuration

Before you start using Git, it’s important to configure your identity. This is necessary for proper version control and collaboration.

git config --global user.name "Your Name"
git config --global user.email "your.email@example.com"

Verify:

git config --list

Initializing a Repository

git init

This creates a hidden .git folder which contains all the data Git needs to track changes

Cloning a Repository

git clone <repository_url>

Checking Repository Status

The git status command shows the current state of your working directory and staging area, displaying changes that are staged, unstaged, or untracked

git status

Staging Changes

git add <file_name>

git add .

Committing Changes

git commit -m "commit message"

Viewing Commit History

git log

Branching

Branches allow you to work on new features or experiments without affecting the main project. To create and switch to a new branch:

git checkout -b <branch_name>

You can also switch between branches using

git checkout <branch_name>

You can also switch between branches using

git branch

Merging Branches

git checkout main
git merge <branch_name>

Pushing Changes to a Remote Repository

git push origin <branch_name>

Pulling Updates from a Remote Repository

git pull