Basic Git Commands

git init

git init
Initializes a new Git repository in the current directory. This creates a hidden .git folder that tracks all version history and configuration for your project.

git clone

git clone <repository-url>
Creates a local copy of an existing remote repository. Downloads all files, history, and branches from the specified URL.

git add

git add <file>
Stages changes in the specified file, preparing them to be committed. The file will be included in the next commit.
git add .
Stages all modified and new files in the current directory and its subdirectories for the next commit.

git commit

git commit -m "Your commit message"
Records the staged changes to the repository with a descriptive message. Each commit creates a unique snapshot of your project.

git status

git status
Displays the current state of the working directory and staging area. Shows which files are modified, staged, or untracked.

git push

git push <remote> <branch>
Uploads local commits from the specified branch to a remote repository, making your changes available to others.

git pull

git pull <remote> <branch>
Fetches new commits from the specified remote branch and merges them into your current branch, updating your local repository.

git branch

git branch
Lists all local branches in the repository. The current branch is highlighted with an asterisk.

git checkout

git checkout <branch>
Switches to the specified branch, updating the working directory to match its state.
git checkout -b <branch>
Creates a new branch with the given name and immediately switches to it.

git merge

git merge <branch>
Integrates changes from the specified branch into the current branch, combining their histories.

git log

git log
Shows the commit history for the repository, including commit hashes, authors, dates, and messages.
git log --oneline
Displays the commit history in a condensed, one-line-per-commit format for easier reading.

git remote

git remote -v
Lists the short names and URLs of remote repositories connected to your local repository, showing where you can push or pull code.