Git Commit Message Requirements

1. Use the body to explain why this commit exists and on a high level what was done

Good

Fix buffer overflow

The buffer overflow was caused by off-by-one error when copying strings.
The source string buffer includes the null terminator, while the
destination string buffer does not.

Bad

Fix buffer overflow

Add -1 to the length of bytes being copied from the source string buffer
to the destination string buffer.

2. When there is a body, its separated from subject by a blank line

Note: subject line is mandatory, body is optional

Good

Fix buffer overflow

The buffer overflow was caused by off-by-one error when copying strings.
The source string buffer includes the null terminator, while the
destination string buffer does not.

Bad

Fix buffer overflow
The buffer overflow was caused by off-by-one error when copying strings.
The source string buffer includes the null terminator, while the
destination string buffer does not.

3. Limit the subject line to 50 characters

Good

Fix buffer overflow

Bad

Fix buffer overflow that was caused by off-by-one error when copying strings

4. Capitalize the subject line

Good

Fix buffer overflow

Bad

fix buffer overflow

5. Do not end the subject line with a period

Good

Fix buffer overflow

Bad

Fix buffer overflow.

6. Use the imperative mood in the subject line

Good

Fix buffer overflow

Bad

Fixed buffer overflow

Fixing buffer overflow

Buffer overflow fixed

7. Wrap the body at 72 characters

Good

Fix buffer overflow

The buffer overflow was caused by off-by-one error when copying strings.
The source string buffer includes the null terminator, while the
destination string buffer does not.

Bad

Fix buffer overflow

The buffer overflow was caused by off-by-one error when copying strings. The source string buffer includes the null terminator, while the destination string buffer does not.

Sources

• How to write git commit messages