Question 1

What is Git, and why is it important to learn about?

Accepted Answer

Git is an open-source version control system (VCS) that allows software developers to track changes to code over time, including changes made by multiple users. This capability is important because coding typically requires a lot of trial and error as well as collaboration, and Git simplifies the process of merging changes from different developers, creating branching versions, comparing different versions of a program, and reverting changes when necessary.

Git is by far the most popular VCS today, making familiarity with this program an essential skill for careers in software development. Professional developers and software engineers often use GitHub, which is a cloud-based Git repository that helps teams collaborate remotely. Unlike Git, GitHub is not a free, open-source program, but it is so valuable to facilitating distributed software development that Microsoft purchased it for $7.5 billion in 2018.

Question 2

What kinds of careers can I have with a background in Git?

Accepted Answer

Because Git is such a widely-used developer tool, a background in its use is assumed knowledge for many programming and IT jobs. Moreover, since development at major tech and software companies is increasingly conducted in parallel by multiple programmers - especially with teams working remotely full-time during the current pandemic - a familiarity with GitHub is also expected for professionals in this field. Indeed, for aspiring developers and software engineers, a GitHub portfolio is an essential part of your resume.

Along with mastery of programming skills like Python, skills in working with Git and GitHub can thus be a big part of your gateway to a high-paying job as a software developer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, software developers earned a median annual salary of $107,510 in 2019. Moreover, with jobs in this field projected to grow 22% from 2019 and 2029, this is one of the fastest growing careers today.

Question 3

How do I know if learning Git is right for me?

Accepted Answer

Learning Git is well suited for developers looking to advance their programming skills and knowledge. It may be right for you if you want to understand the code that's behind a lot of the tools you likely use, learn more about C, which Git is written in, work with a codebase that's functional and minimalist, or work with code that doesn't take a long time to learn, then learning Git is probably a good fit for you.

Question 4

What skills or experience do I need to already have, before starting to learn Git?

Accepted Answer

Before starting to learn Git, you should have experience using C and have an understanding of its basic programming concepts. In particular, it'll be helpful for you to understand C header files, C function prototypes, C macros, C struts, and C pointers. As an alternative, having a familiarity with Python or Java may help you have a foundation that will make it easier to learn Git.

Question 5

What topics can I study that are related to Git?

Accepted Answer

You can certainly study C, C#, C++, or similar managed or unmanaged languages if you want to learn more about topics related to Git. Bash/UNIX shell scripting is also related to Git, as is GitHub, of course, the internet hosting provider for software and version control that use Git. Additional topics related to Git that you can study include version control, open-source software development, webpage creation, and project management.

Question 6

What kind of people are best suited for roles in Git?

Accepted Answer

The kind of people well suited for roles in Git are excited about programming and coding. They have strong communication skills, both written and verbal, including with remote teams. People that are successful in roles in Git are independent thinkers who are curious, and they may need the ability to understand and empathize with customers, depending on their role.

Question 7

Are there free Git courses or certifications available on Coursera?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Coursera offers a variety of free courses across many topics, including Git. While you can access most course materials for free by auditing the courses, this does not include graded assignments or a completion certificate. For those looking to obtain a certificate to showcase their learning or enhance their professional profile, Coursera provides the option to purchase the course. Additionally, Coursera offers free trials or financial aid to learners who qualify, making certifications more accessible to everyone.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Git

What is Git, and why is it important to learn about?‎

What kinds of careers can I have with a background in Git?‎

How do I know if learning Git is right for me?‎

What skills or experience do I need to already have, before starting to learn Git?‎

What topics can I study that are related to Git?‎

What kind of people are best suited for roles in Git?‎

Are there free Git courses or certifications available on Coursera?‎

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