How to Merge Two Branches in Git Command Line
In the world of version control, Git stands out as one of the most popular and widely used tools. Managing multiple branches is a common task when working on a project, as it allows developers to work on different features or fixes simultaneously. However, at some point, you might need to merge these branches to combine their changes into a single, coherent codebase. This article will guide you through the process of merging two branches in Git using the command line.
Firstly, it is essential to ensure that you have the necessary permissions and access to the repository you are working on. Once you have logged in to your Git account and have the required access, follow these steps to merge two branches in Git command line:
1. Switch to the branch you want to merge into. For example, if you want to merge the ‘feature-branch’ into the ‘master’ branch, run the following command:
“`
git checkout master
“`
2. Update the ‘master’ branch with the latest changes from the remote repository. This ensures that you have the most recent code before merging. Use the following command:
“`
git pull origin master
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3. Switch to the branch you want to merge from. In this case, it is the ‘feature-branch’. Run the following command:
“`
git checkout feature-branch
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4. Now, you are ready to merge the ‘feature-branch’ into the ‘master’ branch. Run the following command:
“`
git merge feature-branch
“`
5. Git will attempt to merge the branches automatically. If there are any conflicts, it will prompt you to resolve them. To resolve conflicts, you can edit the conflicting files and make the necessary changes. Once you have resolved all conflicts, run the following command to complete the merge:
“`
git add
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Replace ‘
6. Finally, commit the merged changes to the ‘master’ branch. Run the following command:
“`
git commit -m “Merge feature-branch into master”
“`
Congratulations! You have successfully merged two branches in Git command line. Now, you can continue working on the ‘master’ branch with the combined changes from both branches.
Remember that merging branches can sometimes lead to conflicts, especially if there are overlapping changes. It is essential to carefully review and resolve any conflicts that arise during the merge process. Additionally, make sure to communicate with your team members and keep them updated on the merge to avoid any confusion or conflicts in the future.
In conclusion, merging two branches in Git command line is a straightforward process that involves switching between branches, pulling the latest changes, resolving conflicts, and committing the merged changes. By following these steps, you can effectively manage and integrate the changes from multiple branches into your codebase.
