Commit Messages

Get an overview of how we use Git commit messages to communicate within the team. Plus, seven rules to make great messages.

Git commit messages are a way to communicate change to fellow developers. To communicate change understanding context and why that change is necessary is important. We want all our repositories to have a commit log that is easy to consume and understand.

Please take a look at these seven rules for great git commit messages:

• Separate subject from body with a blank line

• Limit the subject line to 50 characters

• Capitalize the subject line

• Do not end the subject line with a period

• Use the imperative mood in the subject line

• Wrap the body at 72 characters

• Use the body to explain what and why vs. how

Before starting a new project discuss with the team and agree to a consistent commit message strategy.