Diff algorithms power version control, code review, and change detection.
Common algorithms
- Line-based diff: Compare text line by line (used in Git, diff command).
- Character-based diff: Compare individual characters (inline changes).
- Word-based diff: Compare at word boundaries (better for prose).
- Patience diff: Improved algorithm that handles moved code blocks.
Output formats
- Unified diff: +/- lines with context (Git standard).
- Side-by-side: Two columns showing both versions.
- Inline: Highlighting changes within lines.
Use cases
- Version control (Git, SVN diff).
- Code review and pull requests.
- Configuration file changes.
- Document comparison and merge.
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