Question 1

What is the purpose of `.gitignore`?

Accepted Answer

`.gitignore` is a file that specifies which files or patterns Git should ignore when tracking changes, like build artifacts or secrets.
- Prevents clutter in the repository.
- Improves performance by skipping irrelevant files.

Question 2

What is the difference between `git add` and `git commit`?

Accepted Answer

`git add` stages changes (new, modified, or deleted files) in the index, preparing them for a commit. `git commit` then saves those staged changes to the repository with a message.
- `git add` is like putting items in a cart.
- `git commit` is checking out, finalizing the purchase.

Question 3

How do you initialize a Git repository?

Accepted Answer

To initialize a Git repository, navigate to your project directory in the terminal and run `git init`. This creates a `.git` subdirectory that stores all repository data.
- It sets up the initial structure for tracking files.
- You can then start adding files and making commits.

Question 4

What does `git diff` do?

Accepted Answer

`git diff` shows differences between working directory, staging area, and committed changes. Use `git diff --staged` to see staged changes only.
- Helps review modifications before committing.
- Essential for debugging and verification.

Question 5

How do you view the commit history in Git?

Accepted Answer

Use `git log` to view the commit history, showing commit hashes, authors, dates, and messages. For a concise view, use `git log --oneline`.
- Add `--graph` for a visual branch structure.
- Useful for tracking project progress.

Question 6

What is Git and how does it differ from other version control systems?

Accepted Answer

Git is a distributed version control system that tracks changes in source code during software development. Unlike centralized systems like SVN, every developer has a full copy of the repository, including its history, enabling offline work and faster operations. Key features include:
- Branching and merging are lightweight and efficient.
- It supports non-linear development workflows.
- Data integrity is ensured with cryptographic hashing.

Question 7

What does `git clone` do?

Accepted Answer

`git clone` creates a local copy of a remote repository, including all its history, branches, and files. It sets up a connection to the remote repo for future pushes/pulls.
- Useful for starting work on an existing project.
- Automatically creates a `origin` remote reference.

Question 8

What is the purpose of `git pull`?

Accepted Answer

`git pull` fetches updates from a remote repository and merges them into the current branch in one step. It’s equivalent to `git fetch` followed by `git merge`.
- Keeps your local repo in sync with the remote.
- Useful for collaborative projects.

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