Interview Q&A / Git & GitHub

31. When would you use git restore instead of git reset?

    Use git restore to change files, either discarding edits or unstaging a path. Use git reset to move the branch pointer to another commit. Restore never moves your branch.

    IntermediateQuick answer1 min read
32. Why does .gitignore not work for a file that is already tracked?

    Git ignores only untracked files. If a file was committed earlier, it stays tracked despite the rule. Run git rm --cached file to stop tracking it, then commit; the file remains on disk.

    IntermediateQuick answer1 min read
33. Why is a submodule in detached HEAD state, and is that a problem?

    The parent pins an exact commit, so Git checks the submodule out at that commit, not on a branch. It is normal. To edit the submodule, check out a branch inside it first, or commits can get lost.

    IntermediateQuick answer1 min read