Discarding Changes

To discard changes in a specific file and restore it to the last commit:
Example:This removes all uncommitted changes in that file.

Older syntax (still works):

To discard all uncommitted changes in the working directory:
⚠️ This cannot be undone.

If you accidentally staged a file:
Example:
This removes the file from the staging area but keeps the file changes.

To completely reset the working directory and staging area:
This:
• Clears staging
• Discards all local changes
• Resets to the last commit
⚠️ Very destructive — use only when you are sure.

When switching branches:
• Git prevents switching if changes would be lost
• You must either commit, stash, or discard changes

Example:

Do not discard changes when:
• You might need the work later
• You are unsure what changed

Instead, use:
Stashing is safer and reversible (covered later).

• Discarding applies only to uncommitted changes.
• git restore <file> discards changes in a file.
• git restore . discards all working directory changes.
• git restore --staged unstages files without losing edits.
• git reset --hard is destructive and irreversible.
• When unsure, stash instead of discarding.