The Distinction Between Git's Staging Area and Working Directory: The Reason for `add` Before `commit`

This article introduces the core concepts, differences, and functions of the working directory and staging area in Git. The working directory consists of files that can be directly operated on locally (like a draft paper), while the staging area is an internal intermediate repository within Git (like a pending review express box). The key differences between them are as follows: location (the working directory is the local file system, while the staging area is internal to Git), editing methods (the working directory can be modified directly, while the staging area requires changes via commands), Git tracking status (the working directory is untracked, while the staging area is marked for commit), and visibility (modifications in the working directory are directly visible, while the staging area is only visible to Git). The process of "add before commit" is mandatory because the staging area allows for more selective commits: skipping the staging area and directly committing would cause Git to submit all changes in the working directory, potentially leading to accidental commits of incomplete work. By following the workflow of "modify → git status → git add → git commit", developers can achieve staged commits. As a buffer zone, the staging area helps developers flexibly control the scope of commits, preventing drafts or incomplete content from being accidentally committed and making code management more controllable.