Git Worktree: What It Is and How to Use It

git worktree is a Git feature that lets you check out multiple branches at the same time in different folders. It helps you work on several versions of a project without switching branches or cloning the repo multiple times.

How It Works

Imagine you have a project folder like a desk where you do your work. Normally, Git lets you work on only one branch at a time in that desk. If you want to switch to another branch, you have to clear your desk and set it up again.

git worktree is like having extra desks next to your main one. Each desk can have a different branch open, so you can work on multiple branches side by side without moving things around. Git manages these extra desks by linking them to the same main project, saving space and time.

Example

This example shows how to create a new worktree for a branch called feature in a separate folder.

bash

git clone https://github.com/example/repo.git
cd repo
# Create and switch to a new branch 'feature'
git checkout -b feature
# Add a new worktree for 'feature' branch in '../repo-feature'
git worktree add ../repo-feature feature
# Now you can work in '../repo-feature' folder on 'feature' branch separately

Output

Preparing worktree (checking out 'feature')
HEAD is now at <commit-hash> Commit message

When to Use

Use git worktree when you want to work on multiple branches at the same time without switching back and forth. It is helpful if you need to test a bug fix on one branch while developing a new feature on another.

It also saves disk space compared to cloning the whole repository multiple times. This is great for large projects or when your computer has limited storage.

Key Points

• Multiple branches: Work on several branches in separate folders simultaneously.
• Shared repository: All worktrees share the same Git data, saving space.
• Easy switching: No need to switch branches in one folder; just go to the right worktree folder.
• Clean workflow: Keeps your work organized and reduces mistakes from switching branches.

Key Takeaways

git worktree lets you work on multiple branches in different folders at the same time.

It saves disk space by sharing Git data instead of cloning the repo multiple times.

Use it to keep your work organized and avoid switching branches repeatedly.

Ideal for testing, bug fixing, and parallel development on large projects.