How to Create a New Branch in Git

Introduction

Branching is a fundamental concept in Git that allows developers to work on multiple features or fixes simultaneously without affecting the main codebase. Creating a new branch in Git enables you to isolate your changes and collaborate with others on specific tasks. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating a new branch in Git.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

• Git installed on your system
• A Git repository set up for your project

Step 1: Navigate to Your Repository

Open a terminal and navigate to the directory of your Git repository using the cd command:

cd /path/to/your/repository

Step 2: Create a New Branch

To create a new branch in Git, use the git branch command followed by the name of the new branch:

git branch new_branch_name

This command creates a new branch but does not switch to it. Your current branch remains unchanged.

Step 3: Switch to the New Branch

To switch to the newly created branch, use the git checkout command:

git checkout new_branch_name

Now you’re working in the new branch, and any changes you make will only affect this branch.

Step 4: Verify Branch Creation

To verify that the new branch has been created and you’re working in it, run:

git status

This command will show you the current branch you’re on and any changes you’ve made.

Step 5: Make Changes and Commit

Now that you’re working in the new branch, you can make changes to your files using your preferred text editor or IDE. Once you’ve made your changes, use the following Git commands to commit them:

git add .
git commit -m "Your commit message"

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully created a new branch in Git. Branching allows you to work on different features or fixes independently and collaborate effectively with others on your projects.