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What is .env File?

A file that stores environment variables for your local development environment

Why It Matters

.env files make it easy to manage settings locally without affecting production or sharing secrets

Real-World Example

A .env file might contain DATABASE_URL=postgres://localhost/myapp for local development

“Understanding terms like .env File matters because it helps you have better conversations with developers and make smarter decisions about your software. You do not need to be technical. You just need to know enough to ask the right questions.”

Callum Holt, Founder, 13Labs

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