How to Make a Branch on GitHub Website
Creating a branch on GitHub is an essential skill for any developer who uses this popular version control system. A branch is a separate line of development that allows you to work on new features, fix bugs, or experiment with code changes without affecting the main codebase. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a branch on the GitHub website, step by step.
Step 1: Navigate to Your Repository
The first step in creating a branch on GitHub is to navigate to the repository where you want to make the branch. You can do this by logging in to your GitHub account and clicking on the repository name in your list of repositories.
Step 2: Click on the Branch Dropdown
Once you are on the repository page, you will see a dropdown menu labeled “Branches” on the right-hand side of the page. Click on this dropdown menu to view the available branches.
Step 3: Create a New Branch
In the branch dropdown menu, you will see a button labeled “New branch.” Click on this button to create a new branch. A new window will appear, prompting you to enter the name of the new branch.
Step 4: Choose the Base Branch
After entering the name of your new branch, you will need to choose the base branch from which your new branch will be created. The base branch is the branch that your new branch will be derived from. By default, GitHub suggests using the “main” branch, but you can choose any branch that is currently available in your repository.
Step 5: Push the New Branch to GitHub
Once you have entered the name of your new branch and chosen the base branch, click the “Create branch” button. GitHub will then create the new branch and push it to the remote repository. You will see the new branch listed in the branch dropdown menu.
Step 6: Switch to the New Branch
To start working on your new branch, you need to switch to it. Click on the new branch in the branch dropdown menu to switch to it. This will update your local repository to reflect the changes made in the new branch.
Step 7: Make Changes and Commit
Now that you have switched to the new branch, you can make your desired changes to the code. Once you have made the changes, commit them to the new branch using the standard Git commands, such as “git add” and “git commit.”
Step 8: Push Your Changes to GitHub
After committing your changes, push the new branch to GitHub using the “git push” command. This will upload your changes to the remote repository, making them available to others who have access to the repository.
In conclusion, creating a branch on GitHub is a straightforward process that allows you to work on new features or fixes without affecting the main codebase. By following these steps, you can easily create, switch to, and work on a new branch in your GitHub repository.
