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Getting Started with Git — Chapter 3 / 4

Branches

Branches let you work on different things at the same time. They are the most powerful feature of Git. And they are simpler than you think.

A branch = a pointer

Key term: branch

A branch is not a copy of the code. It is just a small label that points to a commit. It's like a sticky note on a page of a book. The sticky note says "I am here". Moving the sticky note is instant. The book does not change.

Full guide on git branch →

When you create a branch, Git creates a tiny file. This file contains the hash of the commit you are on. That's it. Nothing is copied.

Creating a branch is instant. It takes almost no disk space.

# main and feature point to commits

main → a1b2c3d

feature → e4f5g6h

HEAD → main (you are on main)

Continue on the app

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