Committing Dotfiles Changes

Committing Dotfiles Changes

This user manages config files in their home directory using a bare git repository. Use the dotfiles alias instead of regular git commands.

The Dotfiles Alias

dotfiles='git --git-dir=$HOME/​.dotfiles --work-tree=$HOME'

This alias points to a bare git repo at ~/​.dotfiles with the work tree set to $HOME.

Workflow for Committing Changes

1. Check Status

dotfiles status

This shows modified, staged, and untracked config files.

2. View Changes

dotfiles diff <file>

Review what changed before committing.

3. Stage Files

dotfiles add <file>

Only stage the specific config file(s) being committed.

4. Commit

dotfiles commit -m "Short descriptive message"

5. Push (if requested)

dotfiles push

Only push when explicitly asked.

Commit Message Style

Based on existing commits, use short descriptive messages:

• nvim: Set default tab size to 2 spaces
• Improve shell, git, tmux, and ssh configs
• Add shell, git, ssh, and tool configs

Prefix with the tool/​config name when the change is specific to one tool.

Important Notes

• Always use dotfiles instead of git for home directory config files
• The repo tracks files across $HOME, so be careful what you add
• Check dotfiles status to see what files are tracked/​modified
• Don't add sensitive files (credentials, tokens, etc.)