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Git Worktrees

Using Git Worktrees

Git worktrees allow multiple branches in one repository.

What Are Git Worktrees?

Git worktrees are a powerful feature that allows you to check out multiple branches in the same Git repository simultaneously. This can be incredibly useful for developers who need to work on different features or bug fixes concurrently without having to clone the entire repository multiple times.

By using worktrees, you can have separate working directories for each branch, making it easier to switch contexts and manage your projects more efficiently.

Setting Up a Git Worktree

To create a new worktree, you start with an existing repository. You can add a worktree for a different branch using the following command:

Replace <path> with the directory where you want the worktree to be created, and <branch> with the branch name you wish to check out in this worktree.

For example, to create a worktree for a branch named feature-xyz in a directory named feature-xyz-worktree, you would use:

Listing All Worktrees

To see a list of all the worktrees associated with a repository, use the following command:

This command will display all the worktrees, including their paths and the branches they are checked out on.

Removing a Worktree

If you no longer need a worktree, you can remove it using the command below. Note that this will not delete the branch, only the worktree:

Replace <path> with the path of the worktree you wish to remove.

For example, to remove the feature-xyz-worktree, execute:

Benefits of Using Git Worktrees

  • Efficiency: Manage multiple branches without the overhead of multiple repository clones.
  • Flexibility: Easily switch between branches without losing context.
  • Organization: Keep different branches isolated, reducing the risk of unintended changes.

Workflows

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