10 Git Aliases for a Faster and More Productive Workflow

Using Git as your go-to code versioning tool is a daily routine for developers, often managed through the command line. Even if you prefer a dark-themed GUI, sometimes you just need to dive into the CLI.

In this article, we'll explore 10 Git aliases that can streamline your workflow, whether you're working solo or within a team. Let's dive in and make your Git game stronger!

Setting Git Aliases

Your Git aliases are usually stored in your user configuration file, typically located at ~/.gitconfig. You can manually set aliases using commands like git config alias.s 'status -s'.

Listing Git Aliases

To see all your Git aliases, use the command git config --list --show-origin, which lists all Git configurations along with their origins.

1. Git Status

Do you find yourself frequently checking your Git status? Create an alias for it:

bas
[alias]
    s = status

Now you can simply type git s to check your status.

2. Git Checkout

Switching between branches is a common task. Make it easier with an alias:

bash
[alias]
    co = checkout

Try it out with git co feat/add-popup.

3. Create a New Branch

Creating new branches? Save some keystrokes:

bash
[alias]
    cob = checkout -b

Use it like git cob feat/add-popup.

4. Delete a Branch

Need to remove a branch? Use this alias:

bash
[alias]
    del = branch -D

Delete branches with git del feat/add-popup.

5. List All Branches

Having trouble keeping track of branches? Use this alias to list them:

bash
[alias]
    br = branch --format='%(HEAD) %(color:yellow)%(refname:short)%(color:reset) - %(contents:subject) %(color:green)(%(committerdate:relative)) [%(authorname)]' --sort=-committerdate

Try it with git br.

6. Git Commit

Commit often? Create a quick alias:

bash
[alias]
    save = !git add -A && git commit -m 'chore: commit save point'

Simply type git save to commit your changes.

7. Rollback Changes

Need to undo your last commit? Use this alias:

bash
[alias]
    undo = reset HEAD~1 --mixed

Rollback with git undo.

8. Clean All Changes

Want to start fresh? Clean up your changes with:

bash
[alias]
    res = !git reset --hard

Clean up with git res.

9. Push Changes to Upstream

Ready to push your changes? Use this shortcut:

bash
[alias]
    done = !git push origin HEAD

Push with git done.

10. Git Log

Lastly, a useful alias for viewing logs:

bash
[alias]
    lg = !git log --pretty=format:\"%C(magenta)%h%Creset -%C(red)%d%Creset %s %C(dim green)(%cr) [%an]\" --abbrev-commit -30

View logs with git lg.

In Summary

These 10 Git aliases will supercharge your productivity and streamline your workflow, whether you're a solo developer or part of a team. Add them to your ~/.gitconfig file and watch your Git game soar!