Go toolchain preview

The Go toolchain is intentionally small: one compiler, formatter, test runner, and module-aware dependency manager—all invoked through the go command.

Essential commands

• go run . — compile and run package in current directory
• go build — produce an executable binary
• go test ./... — run tests in module
• go fmt ./... — format code to standard style
• go mod init / go get — modules and dependencies

Modules and GOPATH (preview)

Modern Go uses modules (go.mod) for dependency versions. Legacy GOPATH workspace layout is rarely needed for new projects—modules are the default since Go 1.16+.

Important interview questions and answers

1. Q: What is go.mod?
   A: The module definition file listing module path and Go version; go.sum records checksums of dependencies.
2. Q: Why is go fmt important?
   A: Enforces consistent formatting across teams—no style debates; CI often runs go fmt checks.

Self-check

1. Which command runs tests in a module?
2. What file declares your module path?

Tip: One go command runs fmt, test, build, and mod—run go fmt ./... before every commit like rustfmt in the Rust track.