What is GitHub? A Beginner’s Introduction to Git and GitHub

Ever seen a video demonstration that you wanted to try out but did not had the right library in your project? Fret not, the materials that you need are usually hidden in the video description aka their GitHub link.

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But what even is GitHub? Why do programmers and developers use GitHub when it comes to sharing resources online? If you are itching to know, let’s find out more together!

What is Github?

It’s a hosting service that uses a version control system called ‘Git’ to store repositories and projects. It allows developers all over the world to safely collaborate. Here is how it’s done:
  • Branching

For instance, developers download part of the project’s source code. Thus, make changes to it and it will not disrupt the workflow of the original project.

  • Merging

Once changes have been made, the developer can merge it back to the original project using Git. After the changes are approved, changes are accessible.

In other words, Git is the command-line tool where you can branch and merge. GitHub is the graphical interface.

What is Git?

Git is the version control system, it provides storage for file changes more efficiently and ensures the integrity of the file better. In addition, you can share those changed files with others online. Read more on the Git Basics page for a thorough explanation of how Git works!

Want to start trying?

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