How to Create a Git Branch from a Specific Commit

Use git branch <branch-name> <commit-hash> to create a new branch from a specific commit. This command points the new branch to the chosen commit without changing your current branch.

Syntax

The command to create a branch from a specific commit is:

• git branch <branch-name> <commit-hash>: Creates a new branch named <branch-name> at the commit identified by <commit-hash>.
• <branch-name>: The name you want to give your new branch.
• <commit-hash>: The unique identifier of the commit where the branch will start.

This command does not switch your working directory to the new branch. To switch, use git checkout <branch-name> or git switch <branch-name>.

bash

git branch <branch-name> <commit-hash>

Example

This example shows how to create a branch named feature-branch from a specific commit hash 1a2b3c4d and then switch to it.

bash

git branch feature-branch 1a2b3c4d
git switch feature-branch

Output

Switched to branch 'feature-branch'

Common Pitfalls

Not switching to the new branch: After creating the branch, you remain on your current branch unless you switch manually.

Using incomplete commit hash: The commit hash must be unique enough to identify the commit. Using too few characters can cause errors.

Typo in branch name or commit hash: Mistakes in names cause errors or unexpected behavior.

bash

git branch feature-branch 1a2b3
# Might fail if '1a2b3' is ambiguous or too short

git switch feature-branch
# Switches to the new branch after creation

Output

error: ambiguous argument '1a2b3': unknown revision or path not in the working tree.

Quick Reference

Command	Description
git branch	Create a new branch at the specified commit
git switch	Switch to the new branch
git checkout	Legacy way to switch branches
git log --oneline	View commit hashes to find the right commit

Key Takeaways

Use 'git branch ' to create a branch from a specific commit.

You must switch to the new branch manually using 'git switch '.

Ensure the commit hash is unique and correctly typed to avoid errors.

Use 'git log --oneline' to find commit hashes easily.

Creating a branch from a commit does not change your current working branch automatically.