How to use git branches in development

In software development, version control is crucial. As a popular version control system, Git can make project development easier and more traceable. The branch function of Git is one of the highlights and advantages of Git. The use of branches can make development more secure, stable and efficient, and can also reduce the trouble caused by code merging. So, how to use Git branches in development? This article will introduce you to the basic concepts and practical applications of Git branches.

1. Basic concepts

1. Branch

First we need to understand what a Git branch is. Branch is a special concept in Git, which is equivalent to the main line and branch lines in the software development process. When we create a new branch, Git will copy the current code and create a new branch, so that we can develop on the new branch without affecting the main line of code. When you need to merge the code into the main line after developing the code on the branch, you can use Git's merge command to merge.

2. Trunk

The trunk is the main code branch in the Git repository. Normally, we do the most major development work on the trunk. We can understand that the trunk is the skeleton of the entire development process, and the branch is a new development environment separated from the trunk.

3. Development branch

The development branch refers to a new branch separated from the trunk. The purpose of this branch is generally to develop new applications or add new features. Code modifications on the development branch will not affect the trunk code. If some code is added or modified on the development branch and is deemed to meet the requirements, the code can be merged into the trunk. Of course, you can also create sub-branches again on the development branch to continue development and testing.

4. Feature branch

A feature branch is a new branch created on the development branch. It is used to develop a new feature or a set of features. These branches are usually short-lived branches that are deleted once the feature is developed and merged into the trunk.

2. Practical Application

1. Version Release

In the software development process, especially before a version is released, Git branches are very useful. We can use Git branches to prepare for upcoming new releases. After developing a new branch, we can make modifications and tests on this branch, and the main branch will not be affected. When we confirm that the code of this branch can be released, we can merge the code on this branch into the trunk through Git's merge command, so that we can release a new version.

2. Multiple person collaborative development

In multi-person collaborative development, Git branches are also very useful. You can create different development branches for each team member or team group and let them work in these branches. Team members can modify and test code in their own development branches without affecting the development work of other team members. All code modifications of each branch need to be recorded on Git, which allows us to track the development progress on the branch at any time.

3. Switching Branches

Switching branches in Git is very easy. If you want to switch from one branch to another, just enter the "git checkout branch name" command. Git will stage the changes on the current branch (if any) and switch to the branch you specify.

4. Prevent conflicts

When multiple people develop in the same code base, code conflicts may occur. At this time, Git's branch function can play a very good role in preventing conflicts. Each team member has their own branch where they can develop and test code, reducing the chance of code conflicts. Modifications to each branch need to be recorded on Git, which allows us to track development progress and code modification history at any time.

Summary

In Git, branching is a very useful feature. It not only makes the software development process smoother and more efficient, but also reduces the impact of code conflicts on project development. By using Git branches, code modifications and tests during multi-person collaborative development can be recorded very clearly, and the development process is more traceable. If you want to avoid conflicts during development and improve the efficiency of code review and testing, you must make good use of the very useful function of Git branches.

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