How to connect local folder to Git repository and start making changes on branches?
<p>I'm new to source control; in the past, I've manually backed up copies of files and made changes on clones then transferred changes manually to master files once debugged. I realize this is similar to how branches work with Git repositories, however I've never used one.</p>

<p>I downloaded Git and made an account on GitLab, and started a new project. My site is hosted on a local server and my files are saved locally. How do I connect these files to a Git repository and continue developing with branches?</p>