GitHub’s Hidden Features You Might Not Know About.

GitHub is more than just a code repository. While most developers use it for version control and collaboration, many of its hidden gems go unnoticed. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or just starting out, these lesser-known features can save you time, streamline workflows, and make you a GitHub power user. Let’s dive in!???

1. Keyboard Shortcuts: Work Faster, Not Harder

Press ? on any GitHub page to reveal all keyboard shortcuts. Here are my favorites:?

- T → Instantly search files in a repo.?

- L → Jump to a specific line in a file.?

- Cmd/Ctrl + K → Quick access to the command palette (beta).?

Pro Tip: Use Shift + / (or ?) to toggle shortcuts anytime!?

2. Saved Replies: Stop Typing the Same Responses

Tired of repeating feedback in PR reviews? GitHub lets you create Saved Replies:?

1. Go to Settings → Saved Replies.?

2. Write templates for common comments (e.g., “Thanks for the contribution! Please fix the linting errors.”).?

3. Use them in issues or pull requests with one click!?

3. Advanced Code Search Tricks

GitHub’s search bar is powerful if you know the right operators:?

- filename:.github/workflows → Find GitHub Actions files.?

- repo:user/repo language:python extension:py → Narrow down by repo, language, or file type.?

- TODO or FIXME → Hunt for code todos across projects.?

4. GitHub CLI: Manage Repos Without Leaving the Terminal

The GitHub CLI (gh) lets you automate tasks:?

bash?

# Create a PR from your branch?

gh pr create --title "Fix login bug" --body "Closes #123"?

# Clone a repo in seconds?

gh repo clone facebook/react?

Install it [here](https://cli.github.com/) and check out extensions like gh copilot.?

5. GitHub Desktop Tips for Non-Terminal Users

If you prefer GUIs, GitHub Desktop has hidden superpowers:?

- Drag-and-drop commits: Stage specific lines or files visually.?

- Resolve merge conflicts with a side-by-side editor.?

- Quickly switch branches and stash changes in one click.?

6. Secret Settings: Dark Mode Everywhere

GitHub’s dark mode isn’t just for the website! Enable it in GitHub Desktop (Preferences → Appearance) and even in GitHub Codespaces (VS Code theme sync).?

Pro Tip: GitHub Mobile for On-the-Go Updates?

Yes, there’s a GitHub Mobile App! Review PRs, merge code, or triage issues from your phone.?

?

Why This Matters?

Mastering these tools can save hours per week and help you focus on what matters: building great software.?

?

Your Turn: What’s your favorite hidden GitHub feature? Share in the comments!??

Happy coding! ???

Thank You for Reading this.??