Top Git Files You Should Never Ignore

calendar Nov 4, 2025 · 2 min read · git github git repository gitignore readme license version control git for beginners repository structure open source git best practices  ·
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When you first start using Git, you might notice several files and folders in your repository that seem mysterious. What is .git? Why do I need .gitignore? What should go in README.md?

In this guide, you will learn many essential files in a Git repository, what each one does, and why they matter. By the end, you'll understand the structure of professional repositories and know exactly which files you need for your projects.

Basic Git Repository Structure

Generally, you'll see these files and folders in projects like this:

 1my-project/
 2├── .git/                    # Git's internal folder (hidden)
 3├── .gitignore              # Files to exclude from Git
 4├── README.md               # Project documentation
 5├── LICENSE                 # Legal license for your code
 6├── CHANGELOG.md            # List of changes
 7├── CONTRIBUTING.md         # How others can contribute
 8├── CODE_OF_CONDUCT.md      # Community guidelines
 9├── SECURITY.md             # Security reporting guidelines
10├── SUPPORT.md              # Where to get help
11├── .env.example            # Example environment variables
12└── [your project files]    # Your actual code

What is .gitignore?

The .gitignore file tells Git which files and folders to skip when tracking changes. This is essential for keeping your repository clean and secure.

Example

1# Dependencies
2node_modules/
3venv/
4env/
5ENV/

.gitignore Pattern Rules

  • filename.txt — Ignores a specific file
  • folder/ — Ignores entire folder and contents
  • *.log — Ignores all files with .log extension
  • !important.log — Exception: don't ignore this file (even if *.log matches)
  • /build — Ignores build folder only at root level
  • **/temp — Ignores temp folders at any level

💡 Tip

Use pre-made .gitignore templates from gitignore.io or GitHub's gitignore templates. Just search for your language or framework!

What is README.md?

README.md is a markdown file that serves as the main documentation for your project. It's automatically displayed on GitHub when someone visits your repository, making it the first thing people see.

README.md Best Practices

  • Keep it updated: Update README when you add features
  • Use formatting: Markdown makes it easy to create beautiful docs
  • Add badges: Show build status, version, license, etc.
  • Include examples: Real code examples help users get started
  • Write clearly: Assume readers are beginners

README.md Template

1# Project Name
2Short description of your project.
3
4## Features
5- Feature 1
6- Feature 2
7- Feature 3

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