5.1 Introduction to Git and Version Control
Git is a distributed version control system that helps you track changes, manage project history, and collaborate efficiently Version control allows you to manage changes, track progress, and collaborate safely without losing work. It lets you experiment freely, recover from mistakes, and maintain a complete history of your project.
This chapter covers the core concepts, setup, and local operations you’ll use daily when working with Git.
Why Version Control Matters
- Track changes – Record who made what changes and when.
- Collaborate safely – Work on shared projects without overwriting others’ work.
- Experiment freely – Test new ideas in isolated branches.
- Recover easily – Revert to previous versions if something breaks.
- Maintain history – Preserve a clear record of your project’s evolution.
Why Use Git
Git is the most widely used version control tool because it offers:
- Speed and efficiency – Handles projects of any size.
- Distributed design – Every user has a full local copy of the repository.
- Offline capability – Work without an internet connection and sync later.
- Flexibility – Suitable for individuals, teams, and large organizations.
- Cross-platform support – Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Core Git Concepts
| Concept | Description |
|---|---|
| Repository (repo) | A folder tracked by Git that stores files and their history. |
| Commit | A snapshot of changes made at a specific point in time. |
| Branch | A separate line of development for features or fixes. |
| Merge | Combines changes from one branch into another. |
| Staging area | A temporary space where you prepare changes before committing. |
| HEAD | A pointer to your current position in Git’s history (usually the latest commit). |
| Remote | A version of your repository hosted online. |
| Clone | A local copy of a remote repository. |
| Fork | A personal copy of someone else’s repository used to propose changes or contribute. |
Git helps you track changes, experiment safely, and collaborate effectively. Now that you understand the basics, the next step is to install Git and set it up on your system.