git switch

Learn to switch branches with git switch.

What is git switch?

git switch is a Git command that lets you move to the branch you want to work on. You can change the current branch by providing its name after the command. It is a clearer alternative to the older branch-switching use of git checkout.

git switch development

After running the command, you are working on the development branch.

Switching branches and checkout

The modern approach to switching branches is to use git switch. Previously, git checkout branch-name was also used for the same purpose. However, since git checkout can also restore files, using separate commands makes the two operations clearer.

git switch main
git switch feature

Each command makes the specified branch the current working branch.

Exercise Switch to the specified branch

Write the command to switch to the previously created test branch. Then display the current branch using git branch.

Show example solution

git switch test
git branch

Test yourself

Which command changes the current branch?
- git status
- git log
- git switch
- git add
Show answer

git switch — The <code>git switch branch-name</code> command switches to the specified branch.
Switch to the main branch
```
git ____ main
```
Show answer
```
git switch main
```
Branch switching concepts

git switch

Switches branches
current branch

Currently active branch
git checkout dal

Older branch switching usage
main

Common primary branch name

Next lesson: Summary - Branch basics

We Are Enhancing Your Experience

Cookie Preferences

Strictly Necessary Cookies

Analytical Cookies