Derrick Stolee, a Git contributor since 2017, discusses the introduction of the experimental git sparse-checkout command in Git 2.25.0, designed to enhance performance for large repositories by allowing users to restrict their working directory to only necessary files. This feature is particularly beneficial for developers dealing with monorepos, like those using the "microservices in a monorepo" pattern, as it speeds up Git operations by minimizing the number of files to be processed. Previously, using sparse-checkout required complex manual operations, but the new command simplifies this process. Stolee provides examples demonstrating how developers can optimize their workflow by limiting the files they interact with, using a sample Git repository for illustration. The post also explores the technical improvements in the sparse-checkout feature, such as the adoption of "cone mode" for better scalability, and highlights the potential of pairing sparse-checkout with the partial clone feature to further accelerate workflows. Future plans for the feature include adding more commands and improving the cloning experience, with ongoing evaluations and updates anticipated as the feature matures.