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`git reset` changes the state of the repository by **moving the branch pointer (HEAD)** and, depending on the mode, updating the **staging area** and the **working tree**.

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## Main purpose

`git reset` is used for:

- undoing commits
- rolling a branch back to a previous commit
- changing the state of the staging area
- (in hard mode) fully removing changes

---

## How `git reset` works

The command always:

- moves the current branch pointer to the specified commit

Additionally, depending on the mode, it can:

- update the staging area
- update the working directory

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## `git reset` modes

### `--soft`

```bash
git reset --soft HEAD~1
```

- undoes the commit
- the changes stay in the staging area
- the working files do not change

### `--mixed` (default)

```bash
git reset HEAD~1
```

- undoes the commit
- the staging area is cleared
- the changes stay in the working directory

### `--hard`

```bash
git reset --hard HEAD~1
```

- undoes the commit
- clears the staging area
- removes the changes from the working directory
leads to data loss

---

## What `git reset` does NOT do

- it does not create new commits
- it is not intended for public branches

---

## Important rule

`git reset` rewrites history.
Safe to use **only for local, unpublished commits**.

---

## Key phrasing for an interview

> `git reset` moves the branch pointer to another commit and, depending on the mode, updates the staging area and the working tree, thereby undoing commits and changing the history.

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