Creating Commits

The git commit command saves your staged changes as a new snapshot in the repository history.

What is a Commit?

A commit is a snapshot of your project that includes:

• All staged changes
• A unique SHA-1 hash (ID)
• Author name and email
• Timestamp
• Commit message
• Pointer to parent commit(s)

Basic Commit

Commit Commands

Commit with Message

git commit -m "Add new feature"

Add and Commit Together

git commit -am "Fix bug in login"

Note: This only works for already-tracked files.

Commit with Detailed Message

git commit

This opens your editor for a longer message.

Writing Good Commit Messages

Format

Short summary (50 chars or less)

More detailed explanation if needed. Wrap at 72 characters.
Explain the problem this commit solves.

- Bullet points are okay
- Use present tense: "Add feature" not "Added feature"

Examples

Good:

• Add user authentication
• Fix memory leak in image processing
• Update README with installation steps

Bad:

• Fixed stuff
• WIP
• Changes

Amending Commits

Fix the last commit:

git commit --amend -m "New message"

Add forgotten files to last commit:

git add forgotten-file.txt
git commit --amend --no-edit

Viewing Commit Details

git show HEAD
git show abc1234

Exercise: Create a Commit

Stage any changes and create a commit with a message: