Using git commit -m "message" bypasses the creation of this file entirely, which is efficient for small fixes but discouraged for complex features that require detailed documentation [5.6]. Customizing the Experience
When you execute git commit , Git performs several background tasks: It creates the COMMIT_EDITMSG file.
Running git commit -v will include a "diff" of your changes at the bottom of the COMMIT_EDITMSG file (as comments). This allows you to see exactly what you’re committing while you write the description. COMMIT-EDITMSG
A concise summary (max 50 characters) followed by a blank line.
Understanding .git/COMMIT_EDITMSG : The Heart of Meaningful History Using git commit -m "message" bypasses the creation
It populates it with a template or existing comments (lines starting with # ). It opens your configured core editor .
If you close the COMMIT_EDITMSG file without adding any text (or if you delete the existing text), Git will abort the commit, assuming you changed your mind [5.5]. This allows you to see exactly what you’re
By setting git config commit.template , you can pre-fill COMMIT_EDITMSG with a checklist or a specific format your team follows.
Using COMMIT_EDITMSG makes this formatting much easier to manage than typing long strings into a terminal prompt [5.3, 5.4]. Troubleshooting and Common Scenarios