Git and GitHub

Install and Identify Git

Learn to confirm Git is available to VS Code and prepare source control in this beginner-friendly Visual Studio Code lesson.

Learning outcomes

  • Explain how to confirm Git is available to VS Code.
  • Complete the guided activity safely.
  • Check that you can prepare source control.

Before you begin

Use a non-sensitive practice folder, inspect unfamiliar code before trusting it, and never place passwords, tokens or private information in project files.

Open official guidance ↗

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Open the intended practice workspace in Visual Studio Code and confirm its folder name and Workspace Trust state.
  2. Check the installed version safely.
  3. Save the relevant files and review the Problems panel, terminal, Source Control view or browser preview as appropriate.
  4. Check filenames, relative paths, console messages, keyboard use, mobile layout and privacy before continuing.
  5. Confirm that you can prepare source control, then create a clear commit, backup or saved checkpoint.
Ian's practical tip: Work in one named project folder, preview after small changes, read the actual error message and keep a recoverable version before broad edits.

Practical activity

Check the installed version safely. The expected result is to prepare source control.

Completion checklist