Git Basic Howto
Git Basic How-To
URL https://git.webhosting.rug.nl
What is Git?
Git is a distributed version control system that allows developers to track changes in their codebase, collaborate with others, and manage different versions of their projects efficiently.
Setting Up Git
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Configure Git
Set your username and email:git config --global user.name "Your Name" git config --global user.email "your.email@example.com"
Common Git Commands
1. Initialize a Repository
git init
Creates a new Git repository in your current directory.
2. Clone a Repository
git clone <repository_url>
Copies an existing repository to your local machine.
3. Check Status
git status
Shows the current status of your working directory and staging area.
4. Stage Changes
git add <file> git add .
Stages changes to be committed. Use . to stage all changes.
5. Commit Changes
git commit -m "Commit message"
Saves changes to the local repository with a message describing the changes.
6. View History
git log
Shows the commit history.
Branching and Merging
1. Create a New Branch
git branch <branch_name>
2. Switch to a Branch
git checkout <branch_name>
Or, create and switch in one step:
git checkout -b <branch_name>
3. Merge a Branch
git merge <branch_name>
Merges the specified branch into the current branch.
4. Delete a Branch
git branch -d <branch_name>
Pushing and Pulling Changes
1. Push to Remote Repository
git push origin <branch_name>
2. Pull from Remote Repository
git pull origin <branch_name>
Stashing Changes
Save Uncommitted Changes
git stash
Apply Stashed Changes
git stash apply
Undoing Changes
1. Discard Unstaged Changes
git checkout -- <file>
2. Unstage Changes
git reset <file>
3. Revert a Commit
git revert <commit_hash>
Helpful Tips
- Use git diff to see changes in your working directory.
- Use .gitignore to exclude specific files or directories from version control.
- Keep commits atomic—focus on one feature or fix per commit.
For more details, check the Git documentation.