Ever stared at your Git repository wondering what files you’ve changed? The git status command is your window into the current state of your project. Created by Linus Torvalds as part of the Git version control system, this essential terminal command reveals everything happening in your working directory.
For developers using GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket, understanding git status transforms chaotic file changes into an organized view of your repository state. It shows tracked files, untracked files, and exactly what’s ready to commit.
This guide explains:
- How to read and interpret git status output
- Understanding the git file lifecycle from untracked to committed
- Using git status command options to customize your view
- Practical techniques for checking repository status in real projects
- Troubleshooting common issues with git status
Master this fundamental git command line tool to streamline your development workflow and prevent common mistakes before they happen.
What Is Git Status?
Git Status is a command that shows the current state of the working directory and staging area. It tells you which changes have been staged, which haven’t, and which files aren’t being tracked by Git. This helps you understand what’s going on before committing changes.
Git Status Command Basics
The git status command is your window into the current state of your Git repository. It’s essential for effective repository management and understanding what’s happening in your working directory. Let’s explore how this fundamental git command line tool works.
Syntax and Basic Usage
Running the git status command
Using git status is straightforward. Open your terminal and type:
git status
That’s it. Hit enter. This terminal command shows you everything about your current repository state.
The command works anywhere within a Git repository. It provides an immediate overview of all uncommitted changes, showing what’s ready to commit and what still needs attention.
Understanding the default output format
The default git status output explanation includes several key elements:
- Current branch name
- Relationship to the remote branch (ahead/behind)
- Modified files waiting to be staged
- Staged changes ready for commit
- Untracked files not yet under version control
Git status colors meaning helps identify different file states at a glance:
- Red: Files with changes not yet staged
- Green: Changes staged and ready to commit
Git status showing branch information appears at the top, making it clear which branch you’re currently working on. This git branch status helps prevent working in the wrong context.
Status Output Components
Tracked vs. untracked files
Git file tracking separates content into two main categories:
Tracked files are files that Git knows about. They were part of your last snapshot or have been staged. Git actively monitors these for changes.
Untracked files are everything else. These might be new files you’ve created but haven’t added to Git yet. Checking repository status shows these files clearly.
Understanding this distinction helps with git workflow steps and maintaining a clean project.
Modified, staged, and unmodified states
Tracked files exist in three possible states:
- Unmodified – File matches the last commit
- Modified – File has changes but isn’t staged yet
- Staged – Modified file marked for the next commit
Git file state transitions occur as you work. The git status command usage helps you track these transitions clearly.
When checking status in different states, you’ll see different outputs. A git status clean repository shows “nothing to commit, working tree clean,” while a git dirty working tree displays files needing attention.
Branch information and commit status
Git status showing ahead/behind tells you how your local branch relates to its remote counterpart. You might see:
- “Your branch is up to date with ‘origin/main'”
- “Your branch is ahead of ‘origin/main’ by 2 commits”
- “Your branch is behind ‘origin/main’ by 3 commits”
This git repository information helps coordinate work across teams. It’s particularly useful before attempting a push or pull.
File States in Git
Understanding the various file states is crucial for effective Git version control. Files move through different stages as you work.
The Git File Lifecycle
The lifecycle of files in Git follows a predictable pattern. Let’s explore the key states.
Untracked files
When you create a new file, Git doesn’t automatically track it. Running git status shows these files under “Untracked files.”
These files exist only in your working directory. Git isn’t monitoring changes to them yet.
To begin tracking, use the git add files command:
git add filename.txt
This moves the file from untracked to staged, ready for your next commit.
Tracked files (unmodified, modified, staged)
Tracked files form the core of your repository. They progress through these states:
- Unmodified – Files matching the last commit
- Modified – Files with changes detected by git diff command
- Staged – Modified files in the git staging area, ready for commit
Git status showing differences helps you see which state each file is in. The git index status (another name for the staging area) shows what’s prepared for the next commit.
Transitions Between States
How files move between different states
Files move predictably between states:
- New files start as untracked
- Adding files makes them staged
- Committing staged files makes them unmodified
- Editing tracked files makes them modified
- Staging modified files prepares them for commit
The git file changes cycle continues throughout development. Understanding this cycle is key for git repository management.
Commands that change file states
Several commands trigger state transitions:
git add– Moves files from untracked→staged or modified→stagedgit commit– Moves staged files to unmodified- Editing files – Moves unmodified files to modified
git rm– Removes files (results in git status showing deleted files)git restore --staged– Unstages files without losing changes
Git status after these commands confirms the transitions. Regular git status checks should become a habit in your development workflow.
When interpreting status results before commits, verify that only intended changes are staged. This practice prevents accidentally committing unwanted changes.
The git status command acts as your guide through these state transitions. It provides clarity about what’s happening in your repository at any moment.
Following the git status best practices of checking status frequently helps maintain a clean and organized workflow, preventing mistakes before they happen.
Using Git Status Effectively
The git status command serves as your checkpoint throughout development. Master it to streamline your git workflow steps and improve productivity.
Regular Status Checks
When to check status in your workflow
Perform git status checks at these critical moments:
- Before starting new work
- After making file changes
- Before staging with git add files
- Before committing with git commit changes
- After merging or resolving conflicts
- Before pushing to remotes
Frequent checks prevent surprises. Get into the habit of running this terminal command reflexively.
Many developers check status after every few edits. This practice transforms the git command line from a tool into an instinct.
Interpreting status results before commits
The output of git status guides your next actions. Let’s decode what you’re seeing:
- Empty output (“working tree clean”): Nothing to commit
- Files in red: Changes not yet staged
- Files in green: Changes staged and ready to commit
- “Your branch is ahead”: Local commits need pushing
- “Your branch is behind”: Need to pull remote changes
Checking repository status before commits prevents problems. Always verify that only intended changes appear in the staging area.
When git status shows conflicts, stop and resolve them before continuing. The status output clearly marks conflict files with “both modified” indicators.
Status Options and Flags
Short format (-s or –short)
For a more compact view, use:
git status -s
This git status short format simplifies the output using two-column notation:
- Left column: staging area status
- Right column: working directory status
Common indicators include:
??= Untracked filesM_= Modified and staged_M= Modified but not stagedA_= Added to index
The git status command syntax with short format is perfect for quick checks. It’s less verbose but equally informative.
Verbose mode (-v or –verbose)
For additional details, use:
git status -v
This git status verbose output shows the actual changes in your files, similar to running git diff alongside status. It’s helpful when you need to remember what changes you’ve made.
The diff appears below each listed file, showing exactly what you’ve modified. This git status showing differences saves time switching between commands.
Ignored files (–ignored)
To see files ignored through .gitignore:
git status --ignored
This option reveals files intentionally excluded from tracking. It’s useful when troubleshooting missing files or when updating your .gitignore configuration.
The git status ignored files option helps ensure your ignores work correctly. Double-check this when setting up complex ignore patterns.
Branch information (-b or –branch)
For enhanced branch details:
git status -b
This shows git status showing branch information with additional tracking details. It’s particularly useful when working across multiple branches.
The -b flag adds a line showing which remote branch you’re tracking and how many commits you’re ahead or behind. This git branch status helps coordinate remote work.
Practical Git Status Scenarios
Let’s explore how git status helps solve real-world challenges in version control systems.
Resolving Common Status Issues
Handling merge conflicts
When git status shows merge conflicts, follow these steps:
- Identify conflicted files (marked as “both modified”)
- Open each file and look for conflict markers (
<<<<<<<,=======,>>>>>>>) - Edit files to resolve conflicts
- Use
git addto mark as resolved - Confirm with git status that all conflicts are resolved
- Complete the merge with
git commit
Git status showing conflicts is your first indicator of merge problems. The status output guides you through the resolution process.
Always check status again after resolving each conflict. This ensures you’ve addressed all issues before finalizing the merge.
Working with modified files
When dealing with modified files, you have several options:
- Stage all changes:
git add . - Stage specific files:
git add filename.txt - Stage portions of files:
git add -p - Discard changes:
git restore filename.txt
After each action, run git status to confirm the desired effect. This command explanation helps verify your actions had the intended impact.
When git status vs git diff comes into question, remember that status shows file states while diff shows content changes. Use both for complete understanding.
Managing untracked files
Untracked files appear in red in your status output. You can:
- Begin tracking them:
git add filename - Ignore them: Add patterns to
.gitignore - Remove them: Delete the files manually
For bulk operations on untracked files git, consider:
git clean -n # Dry run - shows what would be removed
git clean -f # Actually remove untracked files
Always use the dry run first! The git status command won’t protect you from permanent deletion via git clean.
Multi-branch Status Monitoring
Checking status across branches
Git status always shows your current branch’s state. To check status across branches:
- Save your current work if needed
- Switch branches:
git checkout branch-name - Check status:
git status - Return to original branch:
git checkout previous-branch
For a quick overview without switching, use:
git branch -v
This shows commit status across all local branches. It’s not a full git status in different states but provides a useful summary.
Understanding status during rebasing
During rebasing, git status displays special information:
interactive rebase in progress; onto 1a2b3c4
Last command done: pick 5e6f7g8
Next command to do: pick 9h0i1j2
This status command output shows:
- What operation is in progress
- Which commit you’re rebasing onto
- Which steps have been completed
- What’s coming next
If you see conflicts during rebasing, resolve them as normal, then:
git add resolved-file.txt
git rebase --continue
The git status command usage during complex operations like rebasing provides critical guidance. It shows exactly where you are in the process.
Use git status frequently during any operation that modifies your repository. It’s your most reliable indicator of what’s happening and what needs attention next.
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced developer, regular status checks form the foundation of effective Git version control. They prevent mistakes and provide the information needed for confident decision-making throughout your workflow.
Git Status in Different Environments
The git status command functions differently across various interfaces. Understanding these differences helps you work efficiently regardless of your preferred environment.
Command Line Interface
Terminal-based status checking
The command line interface (CLI) provides the most direct access to git status. Open your terminal and type:
git status
The CLI offers several advantages:
- Available everywhere Git is installed
- Consistent behavior across operating systems
- Direct access to all command options
- Scriptable for automation
Terminal command usage is fundamental to Git. Even if you primarily use GUIs, knowing CLI status checks is essential for remote servers or troubleshooting.
Colorized output interpretation
By default, Git uses color in its git status output explanation:
- Red: Untracked or modified files
- Green: Staged changes
- Normal text: Branch and general information
Custom colors can be configured with:
git config --global color.status.added "green bold"
git config --global color.status.changed "red bold"
git config --global color.status.untracked "magenta bold"
These colors provide immediate visual cues about your repository state. They make interpreting status results before commits faster and more intuitive.
Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs)
Status visualization in popular Git GUIs
Many developers prefer GUI clients for their visual representation of git status:
- GitHub Desktop: Shows file changes with colored indicators
- GitKraken: Displays working directory changes in dedicated panels
- Sourcetree: Uses a file tree view with icons showing file states
- VS Code: Integrates status into the editor with color-coded file icons
Each client translates the git status command output into visual elements. This makes understanding complex repository information more intuitive.
Advantages of visual status representation
GUI representations offer distinct benefits:
- Immediate visual differentiation between file states
- Side-by-side comparisons of changes
- Contextual actions based on file state
- Simplified viewing of git status in different states
- Enhanced clarity for beginners
Visual tools excel at showing git status showing differences through color, icons, and position. They transform the abstract concept of file states into concrete visual patterns.
Most GUIs automatically refresh status, eliminating the need for manual git status checks. This continuous feedback keeps you informed without interrupting your workflow.
Advanced Git Status Techniques
Beyond basic usage, git status offers powerful customization options and integration capabilities.
Custom Status Formats
Configuring status output format
Git allows extensive customization of status output. Create a custom format with:
git config --global status.short true
git config --global status.branch true
For porcelain format (machine-readable output):
git status --porcelain=v2
This structured output is perfect for scripting and git status in continuous integration pipelines. Each line follows a specific format that tools can parse reliably.
Git status porcelain format is particularly useful when automating repository management tasks. It provides consistent, parsable output that doesn’t change with Git versions.
Creating aliases for common status checks
Aliases save time with frequently used status commands:
git config --global alias.st "status -sb"
git config --global alias.stat "status -v"
git config --global alias.changes "status --short --branch"
After configuration, use shortcuts like:
git st
These aliases combine git status command options you use frequently. They streamline your workflow by reducing typing and standardizing your status checks.
For more complex status processing, create shell aliases or functions that leverage git status command output for specialized information.
Integrating with Development Workflows
Status checks in continuous integration
CI systems often use git status to verify build conditions:
if git status --porcelain | grep -q '^??'; then
echo "Untracked files present, aborting build"
exit 1
fi
This approach ensures clean working directories before builds. It prevents problems caused by untracked or modified files affecting test outcomes.
Git status command usage in CI focuses on programmatic checks rather than human readability. The porcelain format provides stable output for automated parsing.
Automated status monitoring in scripts
Build scripts that monitor git repository information:
#!/bin/bash
# Monitor working directory cleanliness
while true; do
STATUS=$(git status --porcelain)
if [ -z "$STATUS" ]; then
echo "Working tree clean"
else
echo "Changes detected:"
echo "$STATUS"
fi
sleep 10
done
Such scripts provide continuous feedback during development. They alert you to changes without manual checks.
For integration with build tools like webpack or grunt, git status checks can trigger rebuilds automatically. This creates responsive development environments sensitive to file changes.
Advanced users can combine git status with git hooks to enforce policies:
# pre-commit hook example
if git status --porcelain | grep -q '^?? test'; then
echo "Error: Untracked test files detected"
exit 1
fi
These techniques transform git status from a simple information command into an active workflow enforcement tool. They automate good practices and prevent common mistakes.
Whether you’re developing solo or in a team, advanced git status techniques improve consistency and reduce errors. They embed version control best practices directly into your tools and processes.
The mastery of git status in different environments and with advanced techniques marks the difference between casual Git users and power users who leverage the full capabilities of this essential version control system.
Troubleshooting with Git Status
The git status command serves as a powerful diagnostic tool when things go wrong in your repository. Learn to interpret its output for effective problem-solving.
Diagnosing Common Problems
Missing files and unexpected modifications
When files mysteriously change or disappear, git status provides crucial clues:
- Files appearing under “Changes not staged for commit” when you didn’t modify them could indicate:
- Line ending conversion issues
- File permission changes
- Timestamp-only changes
- External tool modifications
Run a git diff command on these files to see exactly what changed. Often, the nature of the difference reveals the cause.
git diff path/to/mysteriously/changed/file
For missing files that should exist according to the repository information, check:
- If they appear under “Deleted” in status output
- If
.gitignorepatterns might be hiding them - If they exist locally but with different case (particularly on macOS)
The git status command explanation helps identify these scenarios quickly. You’ll see either deleted files, nothing unusual (suggesting ignore patterns), or unexpected staging statuses.
Detached HEAD states
A “detached HEAD” message in your git status output requires immediate attention:
HEAD detached at 1a2b3c4
This means you’re not on a branch but viewing a specific commit. Common causes include:
- Checking out a specific commit hash
- Checking out a remote branch without tracking
- Certain git operations like bisect or rebase
To fix this:
git checkout -b new-branch-name # Save your work
git checkout main # Return to a normal branch
Always run git status after complex operations to catch detached HEAD situations. The status output clearly indicates this condition at the very top of its message.
Status-based Problem Solving
Using status to fix staging errors
Accidentally staged the wrong files? Git status helps identify and correct these mistakes:
- Check what’s currently staged with git status
- Unstage specific files:
git restore --staged path/to/wrongly/staged/file - Verify the fix with another status check
For accidentally staged binary files or large datasets that slow down your repository, the same approach works. Status shows what’s in your staging area, guiding your cleanup efforts.
When git status showing branch information indicates you’re on the wrong branch, you can stash changes before switching:
git stash save "work in progress"
git checkout correct-branch
git stash apply # Optional, if you want the changes here
Verify each step with git status to ensure your working directory reflects the expected state.
Recovering from incorrect commits
If you’ve just made a commit you regret, git status helps verify your recovery:
- For the most recent commit, use:
git reset --soft HEAD~1 - Run git status to confirm the changes are back in your staging area
- Make necessary adjustments, then commit properly
For more complex scenarios like commits pushed to a remote, use:
git revert commit-hash
After each correction step, check git status to confirm your repository state. Status outputs provide assurance that your recovery actions had the intended effect.
Git status troubleshooting works best when combined with other inspection commands:
git log– Review commit historygit reflog– Track reference changesgit diff– See content differencesgit ls-files– List tracked files
Together, these tools form a comprehensive diagnostic suite for git repository management.
Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques
Diagnosing remote synchronization issues
When git status showing ahead/behind indicates synchronization problems, investigate further:
Your branch is ahead of 'origin/main' by 3 commits
To see exactly which commits differ:
git log origin/main..HEAD
If status shows you’re behind, preview incoming changes:
git log HEAD..origin/main
These commands reveal precisely what’s different between local and remote branches, helping you decide whether to push, pull, or resolve conflicts.
Dealing with submodule issues
For repositories with submodules, git status may show:
modified: path/to/submodule (new commits)
This indicates the submodule has new commits not yet recorded in the parent repository. To fix:
cd path/to/submodule
git checkout desired-commit
cd -
git add path/to/submodule
git commit -m "Update submodule reference"
Always run git status both in the main repository and within submodules when troubleshooting. Submodule state is a common source of confusion that status helps clarify.
Resolving merge and rebase conflicts
During complex operations, git status provides critical guidance:
You have unmerged paths.
(fix conflicts and run "git commit")
Status also lists each conflicted file. Address them one by one:
- Open each conflicted file
- Look for conflict markers (
<<<<<<<,=======,>>>>>>>) - Edit to resolve conflicts
git addeach resolved file- Run git status again to confirm progress
- Complete with
git commitwhen all conflicts are resolved
The git status best practices during conflict resolution include checking status after each file is fixed. This methodical approach prevents overlooking conflicts.
Preventative Troubleshooting
Regular status checks as prevention
Most problems are easier to fix when caught early. Integrate these git status checks into your routine:
- Before starting new work
- After switching branches
- Before and after merging
- Before pushing to shared repositories
Developing this habit prevents many common issues from escalating. A quick git status check takes seconds but saves hours of debugging.
Creating status-based safeguards
Add safeguards to your workflow with git hooks:
# pre-commit hook example
#!/bin/bash
if git status --porcelain | grep -q '^?? .*\.log$'; then
echo "ERROR: Attempting to commit with log files present"
exit 1
fi
Similar checks can prevent commits with merge conflicts, large binary files, or sensitive data. The git status command provides the raw information these safeguards need.
By mastering git status for troubleshooting, you transform it from a simple informational tool into a problem-solving powerhouse. With practice, you’ll quickly diagnose issues from status output alone, making your version control experience smoother and more productive.
FAQ on What Is Git Status
What does the git status command do?
Git status shows the current state of your working directory and staging area. It reveals which files are tracked, modified, or untracked, and indicates if your local branch is ahead or behind its remote counterpart. This command explanation helps developers understand what changes will be included in their next commit.
How do I read git status output?
The git status output explanation is straightforward. Files in red are changed but not staged. Green files are staged for commit. The header shows your current branch and its relationship to the remote. Status also indicates untracked files and provides helpful hints for common next steps.
What’s the difference between git status and git log?
Git status vs git log addresses different needs. Status shows the current state of uncommitted changes in your working directory. Log displays the history of completed commits. Status looks forward to what will be committed next, while log looks backward at what has already been recorded.
How can I see a shorter git status output?
Use the git status short format with:
git status -s
This compact view uses a two-letter code system where the first column indicates staging status and the second shows working directory status. It’s perfect for quick checking repository status with less screen space.
Why are some files not showing in git status?
Files might be hidden from git status because:
- They match patterns in
.gitignore - They’re already tracked without changes
- Your terminal is in the wrong directory
- File permissions prevent Git from reading them
To see ignored files, use git status --ignored. For a complete list of tracked files, try git ls-files.
What does “detached HEAD” in git status mean?
A “detached HEAD” message indicates you’re not on a named branch but viewing a specific commit directly. This typically happens after checking out a commit hash or tag. Create a new branch with git checkout -b new-branch-name to save any changes you make.
How do I check git status across multiple branches?
The git status command only shows information for your current branch. To check multiple branches:
git branch -v
This displays all local branches with their latest commit and tracking information. For more detailed git branch status, you’ll need to switch to each branch individually.
What do the terms “ahead” and “behind” mean in git status?
When git status showing ahead/behind appears, it indicates your local and remote branches have diverged. “Ahead” means you have local commits not yet pushed. “Behind” means the remote has commits you haven’t pulled. This helps coordinate work between your local repository and platforms like GitHub.
How can I customize git status output colors?
Customize git status colors meaning with:
git config --global color.status.added "green bold"
git config --global color.status.changed "red bold"
git config --global color.status.untracked "magenta bold"
These settings enhance visual cues about your repository state, making different file states immediately recognizable during git status checks.
When should I check git status in my workflow?
Perform git status checks at these key moments:
- Before starting new work
- After making changes
- Before staging or committing
- Before merging or rebasing
- Before pushing to remote repositories
- After resolving conflicts
Regular checks prevent surprises and build good git workflow steps habits.
Conclusion
Understanding what is git status transforms your development experience. This fundamental command line interface tool provides immediate insight into your repository information, showing exactly which files have changed and what’s ready to commit. By interpreting the git status command output, you gain control over your version control workflow.
Regular git status checks prevent common mistakes:
- Accidentally committing unwanted files
- Forgetting to add new files
- Pushing incomplete changes
- Missing merge conflicts
- Working on the wrong branch
As you’ve seen, mastering the git status command usage goes beyond basic implementation. The various formats — from verbose to porcelain — provide flexibility for different scenarios. Whether you’re working on personal projects or in collaborative coding environments, status checks form the backbone of effective git repository management.
Remember that git status isn’t just informational — it’s preventative. By making status checks habitual before key operations, you’ll catch issues early when they’re easiest to fix. This simple practice distinguishes experienced developers within the DevOps practices community.
With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.
A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.
- What Is MVVM? A Modern Approach to App Architecture - May 22, 2025
- What Is Gitignore? Understand It in 5 Minutes - May 22, 2025
- Why Embedded Systems Are Crucial for Modern Product Success - May 22, 2025
