A Git repository is a data structure that stores a project’s files along with the complete history of changes. It acts as the core unit of collaboration in Git based workflows. A repository tracks commits, branches, tags, and references, enabling developers to work independently and merge contributions later. Repositories can live locally on a developer’s machine or remotely on hosting platforms. Each clone contains the full history, making it easy to explore past versions, revert mistakes, or analyze development patterns. Repositories help ensure that teams understand how a project evolved.
how it works
Inside a repository, Git stores objects representing file versions, commits, and trees. These objects are referenced by hashes that guarantee content integrity. The repository includes a working directory where developers edit files, an index for staging changes, and a .git directory that contains Git’s internal database. Remote repositories allow teams to synchronize changes using push and pull operations. CI/CD systems track changes in repositories to trigger automated builds and deployments. Organizing project structure within the repository helps maintain clarity as teams collaborate.