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Stephen Collins
Stephen Collins

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TTT #1: Git Basics and Tricks

Today, I'll share three essential Git commands that will elevate your version control skills: git reflog, git diff --staged -- some file, and git commit --amend. Let's dive in!

Git Reflog:

Ever found yourself in a tricky situation, such as accidentally deleting a branch or losing a commit? Fear not! The git reflog command is your lifesaver. It maintains a detailed history of all actions performed within your repository, including branch checkouts, merges, and even commit amendments. Use git reflog to navigate through this log and effortlessly recover lost work or restore accidentally deleted branches.

Git Diff --staged -- some file:

Reviewing changes before committing is crucial, but what if you only want to see the modifications you've staged? Enter the powerful combination of git diff --staged -- some file. By appending -- some file to the command, you can limit the diff output to a specific file. This feature provides fine-grained control over your commits, ensuring that you commit only the intended changes. Stay focused and maintain code quality with this helpful command.

Git Commit --amend:

Mistakes happen, but with git commit --amend, you can rectify them without creating a new commit. Forgot to include a file or made a small mistake in your commit message? Not a problem! Running git commit --amend opens your default text editor, allowing you to modify the previous commit message. Additionally, you can add more changes to the staging area before amending the commit, making it convenient to include new modifications seamlessly.

By incorporating these Git tips and tricks into your workflow, you'll streamline your version control process and become a more proficient Git user. Remember, Git is a powerful tool with a vast array of features, so continuous learning and exploration will further enhance your proficiency.

Stay tuned for my next newsletter, where I'll continue to share tips and tricks to add to your tech toolbox!

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