Staging and Committing

Git uses a three-step process to save changes: working directory → staging area → repository.

The Three Areas

1. Working directory: Files you edit directly
2. Staging area: Changes marked for the next commit
3. Repository: Permanent history of commits

Working Directory → git add → Staging Area → git commit → Repository

Staging Changes

Add specific files:

git add file.txt

Add all changes:

git add .

Committing Changes

Save staged changes with a message:

git commit -m "Add login page"

Good Commit Messages

• Use the imperative mood (“Add feature” not “Added feature”)
• Keep under 72 characters
• Explain what changed and why
• Reference issue numbers when relevant

Best Practices

• Commit early and often
• Don’t stage and commit unrelated changes
• Write meaningful commit messages
• Review changes before committing with git diff

Common Mistakes

• Committing all changes without staging first
• Using vague messages like “fix” or “update”
• Committing large files or sensitive data
• Forgetting to add files before committing