How to Create a GitHub Repository from your Terminal

Muhammad Arif Raza — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 16:14:43 +0000

🚀 How to Create a GitHub Repository from Your Terminal
GitHub is a developer’s best friend when it comes to version control and collaboration. While most people use the GitHub web interface to create repositories, did you know you can do it faster directly from your terminal? Whether you're a seasoned developer or just getting started, this guide will show you how to create a GitHub repository straight from the command line using the GitHub CLI.

🛠 Prerequisites
Before diving in, make sure you have the following tools ready to go:

Git Installed

Check if Git is installed:

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git --version

If not, download and install it from git-scm.com.
GitHub CLI (gh) Installed

Download the GitHub CLI from cli.github.com.
After installation, verify it by running:

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gh --version

A GitHub Account

Ensure you have an active GitHub account.
🚦 Step-by-Step Guide

Authenticate with the GitHub CLI Log in to GitHub from your terminal:

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gh auth login
Follow the on-screen instructions to authenticate via your browser or terminal.

Navigate to Your Project Directory If you already have a project folder, move into it:

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cd /path/to/your/project
If not, create a new directory:

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mkdir my-project  
cd my-project

Initialize Git If you haven’t initialized a Git repository in your project folder, do so now:

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git init

Create the GitHub Repository Use the GitHub CLI to create a new repository:

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gh repo create <repository-name>

Replace with your desired repo name. You’ll be prompted to select:

Visibility: Public or Private
Location: In the current directory or as a blank repo
For example, to create a public repository in your current folder, run:

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gh repo create my-awesome-project --public

Stage and Commit Your Files Stage all files for commit:

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git add .

Create your first commit:

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git commit -m "Initial commit"

Push Your Code to GitHub Push your local code to the newly created remote repository:

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git branch -M main  
git push -u origin main

✅ Verify Your Repository
Head over to GitHub and check your profile or organization to see your new repository live!

💡 Bonus Tips
To create repositories for a specific GitHub organization, use:

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gh repo create <repository-name> --org <organization-name>

Use gh repo view to quickly view repository details from your terminal.

Automate your workflow by combining these steps into a shell script.

🚀 Conclusion
Creating a GitHub repository from your terminal is quick, efficient, and keeps you in your flow. Tools like the GitHub CLI make managing repositories a breeze. Whether you’re starting a new project or migrating an existing one, this method saves time and keeps things simple.

Do you have other tips for managing GitHub repositories? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy coding! 🎉

DEV Community: Muhammad Arif Raza

How to Create a GitHub Repository from your Terminal