Following guide gives a brief introduction to git and github and provides resources to further explore these topics on your own.

Introduction to Git and GitHub

What is Git?

Git is a tool(software) that helps keep track of changes made to files. Think of it as a powerful “undo” system, which lets you see what changes were made, when they were made, and by whom. It’s very useful for when multiple people are working on the same project as it allows you to merge changes without losing any work. Even if you’re working alone, it’s very helpful in tracking your own changes, to maintain versions, for experimental work where you have to undo and redo stuffs frequently.

What is GitHub?

GitHub is a platform that hosts your projects online, making it easier for others to collaborate on them. You can think of GitHub as a Dropbox for projects where you can also track changes and work with others. Even as an individual user, you can save a copy of your work, continuously update it and maintain a backup. You can also share your work with others. The projects are stored as repositories. You can have private repository or public repository depending upon whether you want to share your work or keep it to yourself.

Key Benefits

  • Track Changes: Git allows you to maintain a detailed log of what has changed, who changed it, and when it was changed.
  • Collaborate: GitHub provides a central place for team members to collaborate on projects, review changes, and make improvements together.

Applications

In developing softwares, Git and GitHub are indispensable for managing project versions and collaboration. Git acts as a detailed record keeper, and GitHub serves as a central hub for project collaboration.

Why They Matter

  • Manage Changes: Track and revert changes as needed.
  • Collaboration: Multiple developers/members can work on the same project simultaneously without conflicting with each other’s changes.

Uses in Projects

  • Developers use Git to maintain history and accountability.
  • GitHub is used to manage contributions from multiple developers efficiently.

Learning Resources

To get started with Git, or to deepen your knowledge, here are some curated learning resources, from detailed tutorials to interactive lessons.

Tutorials and Guides

  1. Pro Git Book
    Comprehensive guide to Git.
    Pro Git Book

  2. Atlassian Git Tutorials
    Detailed tutorials from basics to advanced workflows.
    Atlassian Git Tutorials

Video Tutorials

  1. Git and GitHub for Beginners - Crash Course by freeCodeCamp.org
    A complete beginner tutorial on YouTube.
    Watch on YouTube

  2. Git Tutorial for Beginners by Corey Schafer
    Learn command-line fundamentals via YouTube.
    Watch on YouTube

Quick Reference