.gitignore Explained | Ignore Files in Git | Tracked vs Untracked vs Ignored Files

In this video, you’ll learn what .gitignore is and how it works in Git, using a simple hands-on lab designed for beginners. This Git tutorial explains the difference between tracked, untracked, and ignored files, why Git ignores certain files, and how .gitignore prevents files from being staged accidentally.

I walk through step-by-step examples to show how Git behaves before and after creating a .gitignore file, how ignored files become invisible in git status, and why .gitignore cannot hide files that are already staged or tracked. You’ll also learn when and why git rm --cached is required.

This lesson is perfect for Git beginners, computer science students, DevOps learners, and interview preparation.

🎯 What You Will Learn

What .gitignore is and why it is used
Difference between tracked, untracked, and ignored files
How to create and use a basic .gitignore file
Why ignored files do not appear in git status
Why .gitignore does NOT untrack files
How to stop tracking a file using git rm --cached
How Git decides what gets staged when you run git add .

🧠 Key Concepts Covered

Git tracks files, not folders
Empty directories are invisible to Git
Ignored files stay hidden and cannot be staged accidentally
.gitignore only affects untracked files

🧑‍🎓 Who This Video Is For

Git & GitHub beginners
Engineering and computer science students
DevOps and software development learners
Anyone preparing for Git interview questions

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Видео .gitignore Explained | Ignore Files in Git | Tracked vs Untracked vs Ignored Files канала Sachin Walia