How to Change the Name of a Git Branch
Changing the name of a Git branch is a common task when managing your repository. Whether you’ve made a typo in the branch name or simply want to rename it for clarity, this guide will walk you through the steps to change the name of a Git branch efficiently.
Step 1: Identify the Branch You Want to Rename
Before you can change the name of a branch, you need to know which branch you want to rename. You can list all branches in your repository using the following command:
“`
git branch
“`
This will display a list of all branches, including the one you want to rename.
Step 2: Rename the Branch Locally
To rename a branch locally, you can use the `git branch -m` command. Replace `
“`
git branch -m
“`
After running this command, the branch will be renamed locally, but the change will not be reflected in the remote repository yet.
Step 3: Push the Renamed Branch to the Remote Repository
To update the remote repository with the new branch name, you need to push the branch to the remote. Use the following command:
“`
git push origin :
This command deletes the old branch from the remote repository. Then, push the new branch to the remote using:
“`
git push origin
“`
Now, the remote repository has the branch with the new name.
Step 4: Verify the Branch Rename
To ensure that the branch has been renamed successfully, you can list the branches again using the `git branch` command. You should see the branch with the new name in the list.
“`
git branch
“`
Conclusion
Changing the name of a Git branch is a straightforward process that involves renaming the branch locally and updating the remote repository. By following these steps, you can efficiently manage your branches and maintain a clean and organized repository.
