Getting Started with Git: Essential Commands for Developers

Git is one of the most popular version control systems, enabling developers to track changes, collaborate on projects, and manage codebases efficiently. This guide covers essential Git commands and their usage to help you get started.

1. Installing Git

To install Git, use the package manager for your operating system:

• Linux:

  bash

   

  sudo apt-get install git

• MacOS:

  bash

   

  brew install git

• Windows:
  Download Git from the official website and follow the installation instructions.

2. Setting Up Git

Configure your Git environment before starting:

3. Essential Git Commands

a) Initialize a Repository

Create a new Git repository in your project directory:

b) Clone a Repository

Download a repository from a remote source like GitHub:

c) Check Repository Status

View changes in the working directory:

d) Stage and Commit Changes

• Stage files for a commit:
  bash

   

  git add [file_name]
• Commit changes with a message:
  bash

   

  git commit -m "Your commit message"

e) View Commit History

Display a log of commits:

f) Create and Switch Branches

• Create a new branch:
  bash

   

  git branch [branch_name]
• Switch to a branch:
  bash

   

  git checkout [branch_name]

g) Merge Branches

Integrate changes from one branch into another:

h) Push Changes to Remote

Upload commits to a remote repository:

i) Pull Changes from Remote

Fetch and merge updates from a remote repository:

4. Resolving Merge Conflicts

When multiple changes conflict, Git will flag the issue. To resolve:

• Open the conflicted file and review the changes.
• Edit the file to merge the changes manually.
• Stage and commit the resolved file:
  bash

   

  git add [file_name] git commit -m "Resolved merge conflict"

5. Best Practices for Using Git

• Commit Often: Make small, frequent commits to track progress.
• Write Descriptive Messages: Clearly describe what each commit achieves.
• Use Branches: Separate development work into feature branches.
• Pull Before Push: Always fetch the latest changes from remote before pushing.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

• Detached HEAD State: Switch back to a branch with:

  bash

   

  git checkout [branch_name]

• Undo a Commit: Use git reset to undo the most recent commit:

  bash

   

  git reset --soft HEAD~1

• Authentication Errors: Verify your SSH key or HTTPS credentials with the remote repository.

Need Assistance?

For help with Git setup and usage, our development team is here to assist. Open a support ticket in your Client Area or email us at support@cybrohosting.com.