Module 4: Writing & Producing
Lesson Specification: Module 4.5
Lesson Specification: Module 4.5
Metadata
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Module | Module 4.5 |
| Title | Collaborative Research with Git |
| Part | Part 1: Main Curriculum |
| Estimated Duration | 30 minutes |
| Nexus Tool(s) | None |
| Prerequisites | 4.1 (Academic Writing) |
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Explain the core concepts of version control (commit, branch, merge).
- Distinguish between Git (local tool) and GitHub (collaboration platform).
- Implement a Pull Request workflow for co-authored LaTeX papers.
- Configure Overleaf ↔ GitHub sync for hybrid collaboration.
Key Concepts
Concept 1: Version Control
Every change to a project is stored as a timestamped, annotated snapshot (a "commit"). The full history is preserved and reversible.
Concept 2: Branches & Pull Requests
A branch is an isolated copy for making changes. A Pull Request proposes merging those changes back into the main version, allowing for review and discussion before integration.
Concept 3: Git vs. GitHub
Git is the local tool. GitHub is the cloud hosting + collaboration layer. You need both.
Concept 4: Overleaf ↔ GitHub Sync
Overleaf's native GitHub integration allows LaTeX co-authors to work in their preferred environment (browser or local) while sharing a single synchronized source.
Concept 5: .gitignore for LaTeX
Only track source .tex and .bib files. Ignore all LaTeX compilation artifacts (.aux, .log, .synctex.gz, .pdf).
Sources & Further Reading
- Chacon, S., & Straub, B. (2014). Pro Git. Apress. (Free at git-scm.com)
- Overleaf Documentation: GitHub Integration Guide.