Git Ignore Generator

Create .gitignore Files

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Git Ignore Generator: Create .gitignore Files Online

Generate .gitignore files instantly with our free online Git Ignore Generator. Select from hundreds of tech stacks including languages, frameworks, IDEs, and operating systems to create a comprehensive .gitignore file tailored to your project needs.

What is a .gitignore File?

A .gitignore file specifies intentionally untracked files that Git should ignore. It tells Git which files or directories to exclude from version control, preventing them from being committed to your repository. This is essential for keeping your repository clean and avoiding unnecessary files like build artifacts, dependencies, IDE configurations, and sensitive data.

Why Use a .gitignore File?

  • Keep Repository Clean: Exclude build artifacts, compiled code, and temporary files
  • Protect Sensitive Data: Prevent API keys, passwords, and configuration files from being committed
  • Reduce Repository Size: Exclude large files like node_modules, vendor directories, and dependencies
  • Avoid Conflicts: Prevent IDE-specific files and OS-generated files from causing merge conflicts
  • Improve Performance: Faster Git operations with fewer files to track

Common .gitignore Patterns

  • Dependencies: node_modules/, vendor/, .venv/, packages/
  • Build Output: dist/, build/, out/, target/, *.class, *.o
  • IDE Files: .vscode/, .idea/, *.swp, .DS_Store
  • Environment Files: .env, .env.local, config.json
  • Logs: *.log, logs/, npm-debug.log*
  • OS Files: .DS_Store, Thumbs.db, desktop.ini

How to Use .gitignore

  1. Create a file named .gitignore in your repository root
  2. Add patterns for files and directories to ignore
  3. Commit the .gitignore file to your repository
  4. For already tracked files, use: git rm --cached filename to stop tracking
  5. Use wildcards: * for multiple characters, ? for single character
  6. Use ! to negate patterns and include specific files

Best Practices

  • Add .gitignore before making your first commit
  • Use comments (#) to document why certain patterns are ignored
  • Be specific with patterns to avoid accidentally ignoring needed files
  • Include language and framework-specific patterns
  • Add IDE and OS-specific patterns for your team
  • Review and update .gitignore as your project evolves
  • Never commit sensitive data like API keys or passwords

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I stop tracking a file that's already committed?

Use git rm --cached filename to remove the file from Git's tracking without deleting it from your filesystem. Then add the pattern to .gitignore and commit the changes.

Can I have multiple .gitignore files?

Yes! You can place .gitignore files in subdirectories. Patterns in nested .gitignore files apply only to files in that directory and its subdirectories.

What's the difference between .gitignore and .git/info/exclude?

.gitignore is committed to the repository and shared with all users. .git/info/exclude is local to your repository and not shared. Use exclude for personal preferences that shouldn't affect others.

How do I ignore all files except specific ones?

Use * to ignore everything, then use ! to negate and include specific files. Example: * to ignore all, then !important.txt to include that file.