Published August 15, 2020
Updated August 15, 2020
Git Commit Empty
Demonstrates using empty Git commits for an effective workflow.
Transcript
# Hello and welcome to the Alchemists Screencasts! # Today, we'll learn about empty Git commits. # Sometimes, when working in a feature branch, it's handy to section commits by group. # For instance, here's our current log: gl # 💡 See *Git Log Pretty* screencast for `gl` alias details. # While work is complete, it would be nice to stay working in this branch. # In that case, a single branch of sectioned work is a good approach. # Here's how I use empty commits to section off work: git commit --allow-empty --no-verify --message "----- End of Implementation -----" gl # The `--allow-empty` option makes empty commit creation possible. # The `--no-verify` option bypasses Git Hooks since empty commits should be discouraged. # The five dashes (-) on each side of the message provides a clear visual in the logs. # Again, an empty commit, is just a commit message only: git show # At this point, we can proceed with work in the branch. # I'll speed up this demonstration by taking a few shortcuts so bare with me: touch CHANGES.adoc git add CHANGES.adoc git commit --message "Added changes documentation" touch CODE_OF_CONDUCT.adoc git add CODE_OF_CONDUCT.adoc git commit --message "Added code of conduct documentation" git commit --allow-empty --no-verify --message "----- End of Documentation -----" gl # Ignoring implementation details and lack of commit messages, notice the sectioned log. # Notice how each group of commits is a section of related work. # At this point you might be wondering why is this important? # Well, the above allows you to create branches, dynamically, per section for code review. # This saves you time from creating and managing chained branches as an upfront cost. # Plus, you can work with the *full* implementation unencumbered in a single branch. # As you rebase, the editor will visually mark the empty commits for you too: git rebase --interactive
gl # Over time your team will provide code review feedback. # Once each section is approved, you can rebase to have sections disappear. # ⚠️ Don't allow empty commits on `master`. # ⚠️ This technique is *only* useful for feature branches. # Hopefully this provides you with a workflow that is easier to maintain. # Enjoy! # https://alchemists.io # ☿ 🜔 🜍 🜂 🜃 🜁 🜄