Chapter 1: Introduction to Version Control and Git

This chapter provides the groundwork for understanding and using Git. We begin by explaining the concept of version control and why it's an indispensable tool for managing projects, especially software development. You will learn about the different types of version control systems and understand the advantages of Git's distributed nature.

By the end of this chapter, you will be able to:

Define version control and its benefits.
Differentiate between centralized and distributed version control systems.
Recognize core Git concepts like repositories, commits, and branches.
Install Git on Windows, macOS, or Linux.
Perform the initial Git configuration for user identity.
Use Git's help features to find command information.

Sections

1.1 What is Version Control?
1.2 Why Use Version Control Systems (VCS)?
1.3 Centralized vs Distributed VCS
1.4 Introducing Git: A Distributed Approach
1.5 Core Git Concepts: Repository, Commit, Branch
1.6 Installing Git on Windows
1.7 Installing Git on macOS
1.8 Installing Git on Linux
1.9 Initial Git Configuration (user.name, user.email)
1.10 Getting Help with Git Commands