The git status command provides a comprehensive overview of your repository's current state, showing which files have been modified, staged for commit, or are untracked. This is one of the most frequently used Git commands as it helps you understand what changes exist in your working directory before committing. The command displays files in different states: modified (changed but not staged), staged (added to index for next commit), untracked (new files not yet tracked by Git), and sometimes deleted or renamed files. The default output shows detailed information including branch name, upstream tracking status, and a list of all changed files. Using the -s or --short flag provides a compact view perfect for quick checks. Understanding git status output is fundamental to effective Git workflows, as it helps you decide when to stage files, commit changes, or clean up untracked files. Regular use of this command helps prevent accidental commits of unwanted changes and ensures you're aware of your repository state at all times.