How to Clone GitHub Repository with Specific Branch
Cloning a GitHub repository with a specific branch is a common task for developers who want to work on a particular branch without affecting the main codebase. This guide will walk you through the steps to clone a GitHub repository with a specific branch using Git commands.
Step 1: Open Terminal or Command Prompt
Before you begin, make sure you have Git installed on your system. To check if Git is installed, open your terminal or command prompt and type `git –version`. If you see the version number, Git is installed.
Step 2: Find the Repository URL
To clone a repository with a specific branch, you need to know the repository’s URL and the branch name. You can find the repository URL on the GitHub page of the repository. The URL will look something like this: `https://github.com/username/repository.git`.
Step 3: Clone the Repository with the Specific Branch
To clone the repository with a specific branch, use the following command:
“`
git clone -b branch-name git@github.com:username/repository.git
“`
Replace `branch-name` with the name of the branch you want to clone. In this example, let’s say you want to clone the `feature-branch` branch:
“`
git clone -b feature-branch git@github.com:username/repository.git
“`
This command will clone the repository and create a local copy with the specified branch.
Step 4: Verify the Branch
After cloning the repository, navigate to the local directory using the `cd` command:
“`
cd repository
“`
To verify that you are on the correct branch, use the `git branch` command:
“`
git branch
“`
You should see the name of the branch you cloned (e.g., `feature-branch`) listed.
Step 5: Start Working on the Branch
Now that you have cloned the repository with the specific branch, you can start working on your changes. You can make commits, push your changes to the remote branch, or create a pull request.
Conclusion
Cloning a GitHub repository with a specific branch is a straightforward process using Git commands. By following these steps, you can easily work on a particular branch without affecting the main codebase. Remember to replace `branch-name` with the actual branch name you want to clone and ensure that you have the necessary permissions to access the repository.
