Getting Started with Git

Short Summary

This article provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on initializing a Git repository, configuring essential settings, and connecting to a remote repository on GitHub. Whether you're a beginner or looking for a quick reference, this guide will walk you through the process with clear instructions and explanations.

Process

Creating/initializing Git Repository

This command initializes a new Git repository in the current directory:

git init

Configure Push Defaults

Set the default behavior for 'git push' to be more straightforward:

git config --global push.default simple

Adding Files to Staging Area

Add all files to the staging area. The asterisk (*) represents all files:

git add *

Include .gitignore in Staging

Ensure that your .gitignore file is included in the staging area to specify files and directories to ignore during version control:

git add .gitignore

Check Staging Status

View the status of your changes in the staging area:

git status

Configure User Information

Set your email and username to associate your commits with your GitHub account:

git config --global user.email "youremail@umich.edu"
git config --global user.name "Your X. Name"

Configure Credential Helper (Optional)

Optional but convenient steps to cache your credentials for a specified period:

git config --global credential.helper cache
git config --global credential.helper 'cache --timeout=604800'

Commit Changes

Commit the changes with a descriptive message:

git commit -m "first commit"

Add a Remote Repository

Link your local repository to a remote repository on GitHub:

git remote add origin URL_LINK

Rename the Default Branch (Optional)

Optionally, rename the default branch from "master" to "main":

git branch -m master main

Push Changes to GitHub

Push your committed changes to the remote repository on GitHub:

git push -u origin main

Enter GitHub Credentials (if asked)

Enter your GitHub username and password when prompted

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully created a Git repository, configured essential settings, and connected it to a remote repository on GitHub. This step-by-step guide is designed to help you get started with version control, making it easier to collaborate and manage your projects efficiently. Feel free to explore more advanced Git features as you continue your journey into the world of version control.