Git Cheat Sheet

#notes - devops

Git Cheat Sheet

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🚀 The Ultimate Git Cheat Sheet

Git is a powerful version control system that tracks changes in your code. Here is a breakdown of the most common and modern commands to keep your workflow smooth.

📂 1. Starting a Project

Command	Explanation
`git init`	Initializes a brand new local repository in your current folder.
`git clone [url]`	Downloads an existing repository from a remote server (like GitHub).

🛠️ 2. The Daily Workflow (Staging & Committing)

Command	Explanation
`git status`	Shows which files are changed, staged, or untracked. Check this often!
`git add [file]`	Moves changes to the "Staging Area" (prepares them for a commit).
`git add .`	Stages all changed files in the current directory.
`git commit -m "msg"`	Saves your staged changes into the version history with a descriptive message.
`git diff`	Shows the exact line-by-line changes that haven't been staged yet.

🌿 3. Branching & Merging (The Modern Way)

Command	Explanation
`git branch`	Lists all local branches.
`git switch [name]`	Moves you to a different branch.
`git switch -c [name]`	Creates a new branch and switches to it immediately.
`git merge [branch]`	Joins the history of the specified branch into your current one.
`git branch -d [name]`	Deletes a branch (use `-D` to force delete if unmerged).

☁️ 4. Working with Remotes (Syncing)

Command	Explanation
`git remote add origin [url]`	Links your local repo to a remote server.
`git push origin [branch]`	Sends your local commits to the remote repository.
`git pull`	Fetches updates from the remote and merges them into your current branch.
`git fetch`	Downloads updates from the remote but does not merge them.

⏪ 5. Undoing & Restoring

Command	Explanation
`git restore [file]`	Discards local changes in a file (reverts to last commit).
`git reset --soft HEAD~1`	Undoes the last commit but keeps your changes in the staging area.
`git reset --hard HEAD~1`	Undoes the last commit and destroys all changes. Use with caution!
`git log --oneline`	Shows a condensed history of all your commits.

💡 Pro Tips for Success

Commit Often: Smaller commits make it easier to find bugs and revert changes if something breaks.
Write Good Messages: Instead of "fixed stuff," try "Fix: Resolve login timeout issue."
Pull Before You Push: Always git pull before pushing to ensure you have the latest changes from your team.

Handy List GIT Tutorials

Reference