How to Exit the Git Commit Message Interface?

When working with Git, you might find yourself stuck in the commit message interface, especially if you’re new to Git or not familiar with the text editor that Git uses by default. By default, Git often opens the Vim text editor for commit messages, which can be confusing if you’re not accustomed to its commands.

This blog post will help you understand how to exit the commit message interface and ensure you can navigate Git smoothly.

Understanding the Commit Message Interface

When you execute the command git commit (without the -m option to add a message directly), Git opens an interactive text editor for you to write a detailed commit message. The most common default editor is Vim, but Git can be configured to use other editors like Nano, Visual Studio Code, or Sublime Text.

Example: Triggering the Commit Message Editor

git commit  

This opens the text editor where you write the commit message. For example, in Vim, the interface might look something like this:

# Please enter the commit message for your changes. Lines starting
# with '#' will be ignored, and an empty message aborts the commit.
#
# On branch main
#
# Changes to be committed:
#	new file:   example.txt
#

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How to Exit the Commit Message Interface

If Using Vim (Default Editor)

Vim is a powerful text editor but can be intimidating for beginners due to its unique command structure. Here’s how to exit the commit message screen in Vim:

Step 1: Write Your Commit Message

1. Use your keyboard to write the commit message. For example: Add example.txt with sample content

Step 2: Save and Exit

1. Press ESC to ensure you’re in command mode.
2. Type the following command: :wq
   • :w means “write” (save the file).
   • q means “quit” the editor.
3. Press Enter.

This will save your commit message and close the editor, completing the commit.

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If You Want to Cancel the Commit

If you’ve entered the commit editor by mistake and want to cancel:

1. Press ESC to enter command mode.
2. Type the following command: :q!
   • q! means “quit without saving.”
3. Press Enter.

This will exit the editor without saving the commit message, aborting the commit process.

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If Using Nano (Alternative Default Editor)

Nano is another common text editor that Git might use. It’s simpler than Vim and typically shows instructions at the bottom of the screen.

To Save and Exit:

1. Write your commit message.
2. Press Ctrl + O to save the file.
   • It will prompt you to confirm the filename (just press Enter to confirm).
3. Press Ctrl + X to exit Nano.

To Cancel the Commit:

1. Press Ctrl + X to exit Nano.
2. When asked if you want to save changes, type N and press Enter.

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If Using a GUI or Custom Editor

If you’ve configured Git to use a GUI-based or custom editor like Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, or Atom:

1. Write your commit message in the editor.
2. Save the file (e.g., Ctrl + S or Cmd + S).
3. Close the editor.

Git will automatically detect that the editor has closed and proceed with the commit.

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How to Avoid Getting Stuck in the Future

Use the -m Option for Commit Messages

To skip the editor entirely, you can add the commit message directly in the command:

git commit -m "Add example.txt with sample content"  

This method is faster and avoids opening any editor.

Set a Default Editor You’re Comfortable With

If you find Vim difficult to use, you can change the default editor to something simpler or more familiar, such as Nano or Visual Studio Code.

To Set Nano as the Default Editor:

git config --global core.editor "nano"  

To Set Visual Studio Code as the Default Editor:

git config --global core.editor "code --wait"  

To Verify the Default Editor:

git config --get core.editor  

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Conclusion

Getting stuck in the Git commit message editor is a common experience for beginners, especially when encountering Vim for the first time. With the tips and commands outlined in this guide, you can confidently save, exit, or cancel commit messages in any editor.

For a smoother experience, consider configuring Git to use an editor you’re comfortable with, and don’t forget about the convenient -m option to bypass the editor entirely.