How to use the command 'hub create' (with examples)
The hub create command is a useful tool for developers who work with Git and GitHub. This command, part of the hub CLI, allows users to streamline the process of creating a new repository directly from their local environment to GitHub. This way, developers can effortlessly initiate new projects on GitHub without leaving their terminal, making repository management more efficient. The command offers flexibility with options to set the repository as either public or private and even open it directly in a web browser for further configuration.
Use case 1: Upload the current (local-only) repository to your GitHub account as public
Code:
hub create
Motivation:
In many scenarios, software developers and engineers work on projects locally before deciding to share their resources with others or make their work available through platforms like GitHub. Elevating a local repository to GitHub is a crucial step when one wants to contribute to open-source projects, showcase personal projects, or collaborate with team members. By using the hub create command, developers save time as it negates the need to manually create a repository through the GitHub website. This is especially beneficial for those who prefer a command-line interface to GUIs and aims at simplifying the workflow by reducing context-switching and manual operations.
Explanation:
hub create: This command alone is designed to take your current local repository and create a corresponding repository on GitHub. By default, it will be set as public, which means anyone can view and access the repository contents. Public repositories are typically used for open-source projects or projects where you want the potential for easy collaboration and publicity.
Example output:
Upon executing the command, users receive a confirmation message indicating the successful creation of a repository on GitHub and providing a link to it. The output will be a repository URL, like https://github.com/YOUR_USERNAME/REPO_NAME.git.
Use case 2: Create a private repository and open the new repository in a web browser
Code:
hub create --private --browse
Motivation:
There are instances where developers or organizations want to keep their code confidential, either for proprietary reasons or when the project is not yet ready for public exposure. In such cases, creating a private repository is the ideal choice. The --private option ensures that only those with explicit permission can access the repository, safeguarding sensitive information while still permitting collaborative development. Adding the --browse option allows for seamless integration into developers’ workflows by automatically opening the new repository in the default web browser, making it convenient to perform any additional setup or view the repository’s settings immediately after creation.
Explanation:
hub create: Used to create a new repository on GitHub, similar to Use case 1.--private: This option specifies that the newly created repository should be private. This means that access will be restricted to those who have been granted permission, making it suitable for personal or protected projects.--browse: By including this flag, the command will automatically open the newly created GitHub repository in the user’s default web browser. This is especially useful for quickly performing additional repository configurations, such as creating an initial README file, adjusting settings, or adding contributors.
Example output:
After running the command, the terminal will reflect the creation of a private repository by providing a link to it. Additionally, the default web browser will launch, displaying the repository page on GitHub. The output may look like Created repository: https://github.com/YOUR_USERNAME/REPO_NAME.git and simultaneously opening this URL in the browser.
Conclusion:
The hub create command serves as a powerful and efficient tool for developers looking to streamline their GitHub workflows directly from the terminal. It provides flexibility depending on whether a project should be public or private and integrates seamlessly with web browsers to enhance user convenience. By understanding and leveraging the options available with hub create, developers can optimize the process of repository creation to suit varied needs and privacy considerations, thereby enhancing productivity and collaboration efficiency on GitHub.
