How to Use the Command 'gh reference' (with examples)

The gh reference command is part of the GitHub Command Line Interface (CLI), which allows developers to interact with GitHub repositories directly from the terminal. The gh reference command specifically displays a comprehensive markdown reference of available gh commands. It is a useful tool for developers who need a quick and detailed overview of GitHub CLI commands without leaving their coding environment.

Display a markdown reference of all gh commands

Code:

gh reference

Motivation: The motivation for using this command is to have a concise and centralized view of all GitHub CLI commands. Whether you are a novice who needs to understand the various functionalities or a seasoned user looking to explore potential commands you haven’t used yet, the gh reference provides a structured, easy-to-read markdown format. This command can operate as a quick reference guide to enhance productivity and ease of command discovery, ensuring users can maximize the potential of the GitHub CLI efficiently.

Explanation:

• gh: This is the GitHub CLI itself, the starting point for all commands that interact with GitHub repositories or GitHub settings from the terminal.
• reference: This argument tells the CLI to pull up a reference document. The reference subcommand generates a markdown format document showing a detailed list of all commands, describing what each one does, and sometimes including syntax and option descriptions. There are no additional flags or parameters, keeping its application straightforward, which encourages on-the-fly examination of command options.

Example Output: Upon executing this command, you can expect an output similar to a markdown document. It should begin by listing the top-level gh commands like gh auth, gh repo, gh issue, etc., followed by subsections for each command that describe their specific subcommands, options, and, in some instances, usage examples. Although a detailed exact output cannot be present here, the output will typically resemble a help documentation file, allowing the user to scroll through the comprehensive list of commands and their functionalities.

Conclusion:

The gh reference command serves as an essential tool for developers and GitHub users seeking an efficient way to learn about the GitHub CLI capabilities. By providing an easily accessible markdown reference of commands, users can quickly navigate and comprehend the functionalities available to them without resorting to external documentation or search engines. This reinforces the GitHub CLI’s usability and adaptability, catering to varying levels of expertise and optimizing command line interactions significantly.