What is version control and why do teams use it?
Options
- A system that records every change, to compare and undo (Correct option)
- Naming the files v1, v2, v3 by hand in a folder
- A backup tool that overwrites the previous copy
- A code formatter that makes the style consistent
Answer
A system that records every change to files over time, so you can compare versions, undo mistakes and work together without overwriting each other
Why
Without version control, people email zip files or end with 'final_v3_REAL.docx'.
With it, every change is recorded with who made it, when and why, and you can go back to any point in history.
Several people can work in parallel and then combine their work (merge).
Git is the most used tool for this.
Remember
Version control = history + collaboration for code.