Git is a distributed version control system used to track changes in source code during software development. It allows multiple developers to work on the same project simultaneously without overwriting each other’s work. Git is fast, efficient, and integral to modern software engineering.

Why Use Git?

• Track Changes: Keep a history of all code changes.
• Collaboration: Work with others without conflict.
• Branching: Experiment in isolated branches before merging.
• Backup: Store code on platforms like GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket.

Key Concepts

• Repository: A project’s directory tracked by Git.
• Commit: A snapshot of your files at a point in time.
• Branch: A parallel version of the repository.
• Merge: Combine branches together.
• Clone: Create a local copy of a remote repository.
• Push/Pull: Send/receive changes between local and remote repositories.

Basic Workflow

1. Initialize a Git Repository

git init

2. Clone a Remote Repository

git clone https://github.com/user/repo.git

3. Check the Status of Your Files

git status

4. Stage Files for Commit

git add filename     # Add one file
git add .            # Add all changes

5. Commit Changes

git commit -m "Describe what you changed"

6. View Commit History

git log

7. Push Changes to Remote

git push origin main

8. Pull Changes from Remote

git pull origin main

Working with Branches

1. Create a New Branch

git checkout -b feature-branch

2. Switch to a Branch

git checkout main

3. Merge a Branch into Another

git merge feature-branch

4. Delete a Branch

git branch -d feature-branch

Helpful Tips

• Commit often with clear messages.
• Use .gitignore to exclude files like logs or secrets.
• Avoid committing directly to main – use feature branches.
• Resolve merge conflicts with care.

Summary

Git is an essential tool for any software developer. By mastering a handful of commands and following best practices, you can collaborate more efficiently and maintain a clean, organized project history.

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