Git Branches Explained: A Separate Line of Website Development
How can a developer work on an update separately? A branch provides a separate line of development in a repository.
1:47 · No narration: the video shows each step as text on screen, and every step is written out below, with buttons that jump the video to it.
Prefer YouTube? Watch this video on our YouTube channel (opens in a new tab).
The six points in the video
This is a silent video. The headings, explanations and labels below reproduce the information on screen.
-
Step 1: A branch starts from existing work
It begins from a point in the project history.
On-screen labels: Existing project; Starting point; New line of work.
-
Step 2: Changes can be developed there
A feature or fix can progress without updating the main branch.
On-screen labels: Feature work; Bug fix; Separate development.
-
Step 3: A branch name gives context
A descriptive name helps the team identify its purpose.
On-screen labels: Clear name; Specific purpose; Related task.
-
Step 4: Review compares the changes
A pull request can compare proposed work with another branch.
On-screen labels: Proposed changes; Target branch; Review discussion.
-
Step 5: Merging combines the work
The accepted changes become part of the target line of development.
On-screen labels: Reviewed update; Merge decision; Combined project.
-
Step 6: Live publishing depends on setup
Some branches create previews; production rules vary by project.
On-screen labels: Preview rules; Production rules; Actual deployment.
A practical check for your business
Agree how work moves from a development branch into the released site. A separate branch supports the workflow, but a change still needs an appropriate review and deployment check.
Sources and further detail
Common questions
How can a developer work on an update separately?
A branch provides a separate line of development in a repository. Check the branch, review and deployment status separately.
Go further
More video tips
All 205 videos →
What Is a Pull Request? How Website Code Changes Get Reviewed
Pull requests, explained.
Website Deployment Explained: From Project Files to a Running Site
Publishing website code changes.