Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Git is a tool for recording changes to files over time. You do not need to understand every Git command to make a first open-source contribution: start with a small edit, record it in a commit, and follow the project’s own instructions for proposing it. The commands and steps below are a common path, not a rule every project follows.
What Git does—and what it does not do
Git is a distributed revision control system: it records a project’s history and lets people work with copies of that history. The Git Project describes it as “a fast distributed revision control system” in its Git user manual.
Git is not the same thing as GitHub. Git is the version-control tool; GitHub is one hosting platform where repositories and contribution discussions can live. Projects may host their work elsewhere or document a process that differs from the usual GitHub pattern.
The small set of ideas that makes Git easier
- Repository: a project’s files together with its recorded history.
- Working tree: the files you currently see and edit.
- Stage: select changes for the next commit with
git add. - Commit: a saved point in the repository history. A commit is local until you share it.
- Branch: a separate line of work, which helps keep a proposed change apart from the default branch.
- Remote: a named connection to another repository for exchanging work. Cloning commonly configures a remote called
origin, but remote names can vary.
One useful mental model is that editing changes your working tree, staging chooses which changes belong together, and committing records that selection in your local history. Sharing a commit with a remote is a separate step.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Choose how to get a repository
If you are starting a project in a directory you already have, initialize a repository. If you want to work on an existing project, clone its repository. The Pro Git guide to getting a repository explains both approaches.
| Approach | Starting point | History | Remote |
|---|---|---|---|
git init |
Your own directory | Begins a repository there; it does not copy an existing project’s history. | Not necessarily configured; you can add one if you need to exchange work. |
git clone <project-url> |
An existing repository | Copies the repository and its available history. | Cloning commonly configures a remote, often named origin. |
For a contribution to an existing open-source project, cloning is usually the relevant starting point. Check the project’s contribution guide before choosing a branch name, running tests, or deciding how to propose the change.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
A common path for a first change
Use this as an example, not as a project-independent recipe. Replace the placeholders with the project’s URL, folder, branch name, and changed file. Follow the target project’s instructions if they specify a different sequence.
git clone <project-url>copies the existing repository to your computer.cd <project-folder>moves into the copied project directory.git switch -c <short-description>creates and switches to a branch for your work. Use a branch name the project accepts.- Edit one small, clearly scoped part of the project. Check the contribution guide for formatting, tests, or other expectations.
git statusshows what has changed and whether those changes are staged.git add <changed-file>stages the file’s changes for the next commit. You can stage selected files rather than everything you changed.git commit -m "Describe the change"records the staged changes in your local history. Write a message that makes the change understandable.git push -u origin <short-description>sends the branch to the remote namedoriginand sets an upstream tracking relationship. This example assumes that remote is the place where you have permission to push.
Git’s cheat sheet covers common commands. For the first attempt, focus on understanding the effect of each command rather than memorizing a long list.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How to propose the change
The right route depends on your permissions and the project’s documented process. If you have write permission, the project may let you push a branch to its repository and propose the change from there. If you do not have permission, a common GitHub route is to fork the project, push your branch to your fork, and open a pull request proposing those changes to the original project. Pro Git’s GitHub contribution guide describes that pattern.
A fork is a copy of a repository under your account or organization on the hosting platform. A pull request is a proposal for changes; it is not the same thing as a Git commit. The maintainers can review the proposal and decide whether to merge it. Before pushing or opening a pull request, read the project’s contribution guide: it may specify where to branch, how to test, what information to include, or whether it accepts that type of contribution.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Understand remotes, fetch, pull, and push
These words describe different ways repositories exchange information. The Pro Git guide to working with remotes explains the remote model.
git fetchupdates your information about a remote repository without itself integrating those changes into your current branch.git pullfetches and integrates changes from a configured branch. Integration may involve a merge, and the result can require resolving conflicts.git pushsends local commits to a remote, provided you have permission and the remote accepts them.
Remote names and branch settings are configurable. If a command does not behave as expected, use git status to inspect your current state and consult the project’s instructions rather than assuming that origin or a particular branch name means the same thing in every repository.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
What to do when Git looks wrong
Start by checking the repository state
Run git status before taking another action. It can show the current branch, staged changes, unstaged edits, and whether your working tree has uncommitted work. If you are unsure what a command will change, stop and check the project’s guidance or ask for help before running it.
If a pull reports conflicts
A conflict means Git could not combine some changes automatically. Read the conflict locations and understand both versions before editing them. Preserve your work before attempting recovery; do not run an unfamiliar command simply to make the warning disappear.
The Git pull documentation describes pull’s fetch-and-integrate behavior and notes recovery options for a complex failed pull. It mentions git reset, but the correct recovery depends on the repository’s state. There is no single reset command that is safe advice for every beginner and every conflict. If you do not know whether your edits or commits are protected, pause and get project-specific help.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →
