As developers, we often interact with version control systems, and Git is one of the most popular tools out there. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to brush up on your Git skills, this guide covers some of the most common Git commands you’ll use in your day-to-day development work.

1. git init

git init

The git init command initializes a new Git repository. This is the first step to start tracking a project with Git.

2. git clone

git clone <repository-url>

git clone is used to copy an existing Git repository from a remote server to your local machine. It’s typically the first command you run when starting to work on an existing project.

3. git status

git status

The git status command shows the current state of the working directory and staging area. It lets you see which changes have been staged, which haven’t, and which files aren’t being tracked by Git.

4. git add

git add <file>
git add .

git add stages changes to be included in the next commit. Use git add <file> to stage a specific file or git add . to stage all changes in the directory.

5. git commit

git commit -m "Your commit message"

The git commit command captures a snapshot of the project’s currently staged changes. The -m option allows you to add a commit message directly from the command line.

6. git push

git push <remote> <branch>

git push uploads your local commits to the remote repository. Typically, the remote repository is named origin, and the main branch is named main or master.

7. git pull

git pull <remote> <branch>

git pull updates your local repository with changes from the remote repository. It’s a combination of git fetch (which downloads new data) and git merge (which integrates that data).

8. git branch

git branch
git branch <branch-name>

git branch is used to list, create, or delete branches. Running git branch without arguments lists all local branches in the current repository. Use git branch <branch-name> to create a new branch.

9. git checkout

git checkout <branch-name>

git checkout is used to switch between branches in your repository. It updates the files in the working directory to match the version stored in that branch.

10. git merge

git merge <branch-name>

git merge integrates changes from one branch into the current branch. This command is crucial for combining the work done in different branches.

11. git log

git log

The git log command shows the commit history for the repository. It’s a great way to review changes and understand the project’s development history.

12. git stash

git stash
git stash pop

git stash temporarily shelves changes you’ve made to your working directory so you can work on something else. git stash pop restores the stashed changes.

Conclusion

Mastering these Git commands will significantly enhance your productivity and version control practices. Git is a powerful tool, and knowing how to use it effectively is a crucial skill for any developer. Practice these commands, and soon you'll handle Git with ease and confidence.

Happy coding!