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Learn Git

Managing changes to a project when working collaboratively can be a challenge for any team. But programmers can rely on Git to help. Learn Git with online courses delivered through edX.
Git | Introduction Image

What is Git?

Git is an open source version control software developed by Linus Torvalds, who created the Linux kernel. It allows users to track changes and manage different versions of projects as they change over time. Git users can create a solo project, or a project with teams, and quickly identify changes made if issues arise within the code. The Git repository behaves differently than other version control software. It stores your changes in a series of snapshots instead of creating sets of files. Git needs only local files, so it is faster than other systems that have network latency.

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Why learn Git?

Git allows each user to host a full repository directly on the individual computer. Commands give each user full access to their local repository even when offline, syncing with the larger remote repository the next time connectivity is available. The repository contains a series of Git commit objects and references to those objects (heads). Commits refer to each change in the project with references to the parent commit objects, plus something called SHA1 (a unique code that identifies each commit). The log shows file changes and new branches, helping keep everything organized. 

Learning Git allows you to manage large scale projects and track changes from a vastly efficient network that's housed on each computer. Users execute Git pulls to integrate their newest changes with the remote repository. Teams can better manage version history and can work on parallel projects through Git branches.

Git course curriculum

Git is linked to data science, mobile coding, and product development. A Git course will teach learners the basics of operating with Git, as well as how to integrate Git into development and data science projects. Some examples of topics learners may expect to encounter include:

  • Git commands

  • Pull requests, commits, and branches

  • Markdown formatting language

  • Integration of Git and Github

Careers in Git

Using Git gives your projects proper documentation and reduces risk as you're building versions during sprints or long term projects. Git is available across multiple operating systems, including Linux/Unix and Mac OS. Working directories help keep your team's achievements logged and setbacks fixable.

Git’s versatility and functionality make it a popular version control tool. Data scientists, programmers, and developers across industries will likely encounter it in their workplace. Explore how online courses in Git can advance your career and begin your learning journey today with edX.