Git & Github: Exploring Commit History

View Commit History with Git Log

Git provides a powerful tool to view the commit history of your repository - the git log command. This command displays a list of commits in reverse chronological order, showing the commit hash, author, date, and commit message.

git log

You can also use various options to customize the output, such as --oneline for a concise view or --graph to see a graphical representation of the commit history.

Example:

git log --oneline --graph

Amend Commit

If you've made a mistake in your last commit message or forgot to include a file, you can amend the commit using:

git commit --amend

This command opens the default text editor with the last commit message. You can edit the message, save, and close the editor. If you've added new changes to the staging area, they will be included in the amended commit.

Example

echo "New content" >> file.txt
git add file.txt
git commit --amend

View Changes in Commits

To view the changes made in a specific commit, use the git show command followed by the commit hash:

git show <commit-hash>

This command displays the commit information and the differences introduced in that commit.

Example

git show a1b2c3d4

Reset to Previous Commit

If you need to undo changes and revert your repository to a previous commit, use the git reset command:

git reset --hard <commit-hash>

This command discards all commits after the specified commit hash and resets the working directory to that commit.

Example

git reset --hard a1b2c3d4

Rebase Git Repository

Rebasing is a powerful feature in Git that allows you to move or combine a sequence of commits to a new base commit. It's particularly useful for integrating changes from one branch into another.

git rebase <base-branch>

This command replays the commits from the current branch onto the base branch, creating a linear history.

Example

git checkout feature-branch
git rebase master

---

Exploring the commit history and manipulating commits are essential skills for every Git user. By mastering these commands, you gain a deeper understanding of your project's history and can effectively manage your repository.

---

Version 1.0

This is currently an early version of the learning material and it will be updated over time with more detailed information.

A video will be provided with the learning material as well.

Be sure to subscribe to stay up-to-date with the latest updates.

Need help mastering Machine Learning?

Don't just follow along — join me! Get exclusive access to me, your instructor, who can help answer any of your questions. Additionally, get access to a private learning group where you can learn together and support each other on your AI journey.

Subscribe Now