Version control is a name used for software that can help you record changes you make to the files in a directory on your computer. This workshop will introduce the concepts of version control and introduce the tools Git (software) and GitHub (cloud service). This workshop is for beginners and no previous experience with Git or version control is required.

At its most basic level, version control software helps us register and track sets of changes made to files on our computer. We can share those changes with others. As we build up sets of changes over time, we have a history of the changes and the ability to bring back versions of the files even after a set of changes have occurred.

Benefits of using version control:

• Collaboration - Version control allows us to define formalized ways we can work together and share writing and code. For example, merging together sets of changes from different parties enables the co-creation of documents and software across distributed teams.
• Versioning - Having a robust and rigorous log of changes to a file, without renaming files (v1, v2, final_copy)
• Rolling Back - Version control allows us to quickly undo a set of changes. This can be useful when new writing or new additions to code introduce problems.
• Understanding - Version control can help you understand how the code or writing came to be, who wrote or contributed particular parts, and who you might ask to help understand it better.
• Backup - While not meant to be a backup solution, using version control systems mean that your code and writing can be stored on multiple other computers.

This requires a basic knowledge of working with the Bash shell and requires the installation of the Bash shell and Git .

Lesson: Version Control with Git

This workshop will be offered on-line. This workshop is typically offered once per semester and can also be scheduled on request . The curriculum is freely available online at: http://swcarpentry.github.io/git-novice. We have  1-2 mini breaks and 1 major break mid morning. For additional accommodations on the basis of disability, please contact the workshop instructor or libpr@ou.edu.

Registration is required.

Questions? Contact Claire Curry, cmcurry@ou.edu.