git-fundamentalslisted

# Git Fundamentals Skill ## When to Use This Skill Use this skill when: - User asks about basic Git operations or concepts - Need to explain Git fundamentals - User is learning version control - Troubleshooting common Git issues - Providing foundation before using advanced tools (like GitButler) Do NOT use for: - Advanced Git operations (rebase, cherry-pick, subtrees) - Git hosting platforms (GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket) - Git GUIs or alternative tools (use specific skills for those) ## Core Concepts ### Repository A Git repository is a directory that tracks changes to files over time. **Key points:** - Contains `.git/` directory with version history - Can be local (on your machine) or remote (on a server) - Initialized with `git init` or cloned with `git clone` ### Commits Snapshots of your project at specific points in time. **Characteristics:** - Identified by unique SHA hash (e.g., `abc123`) - Contains author, timestamp, message, and changes - Forms a history chain (each commit points to parent) - Immutable once created ### Branches Independent lines of development in a repository. **Key points:** - Default branch: usually `main` or `master` - Branches are lightweight (just pointers to commits) - Allow parallel development - Can be merged or deleted ### Working Directory, Staging Area, Repository ``` Working Directory → Staging Area → Repository (modified files) (git add) (git commit) ``` - **Working Directory**: Your actual files - **Staging Ar