Resolving Git Merge Issues: A Practical Guide
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Fixing Broken Branches
In this guide, we will explore how to recreate a new branch containing the original modifications from a problematic branch after a git merge or rebase.
Chapter 1.1: Common Git Issues
When working with version control systems like Git, encountering challenges during merging or rebasing is common. Here, I will outline an effective method to tackle these issues. Although there are alternative strategies, such as reverting a rebase and attempting it again, I find this method more effective.
Relevant Git Commands
- git cherry-pick
- git log
- git checkout
- git branch
Section 1.1.1: Creating a New Branch
Let's assume you attempted to rebase the main branch onto your development branch, and the application fails to launch as a result.
- Start by creating a new branch, let's call it dev2, from the main branch. This ensures that your new branch has all the latest changes from the main branch, eliminating the need for a rebase.
Section 1.1.2: Applying Changes from the Broken Branch
Next, we will transfer all modifications from the dev branch to the newly created dev2 branch. Switch to your dev2 branch and utilize the git cherry-pick command to import the commits.
To retrieve the commit IDs, use the git log command on the dev branch. Apply the commits in chronological order to ensure that all your changes, as well as those from the rebase source, are included.
Section 1.1.3: Pushing the New Branch
After successfully applying all changes, push the dev2 branch to the remote repository. You may need to set the upstream, but Git will guide you through the process.
Section 1.1.4: Deleting the Broken Branch
At this point, the original dev branch has become redundant. You can safely remove it from both your local and remote repositories.
Chapter 2: Conclusion
This guide has provided a clear approach to resolving issues with a broken branch by replacing it with a functional alternative. This straightforward strategy may prove beneficial in your future Git endeavors.
In this video, learn how to effectively resolve Git merge conflicts using rebasing techniques.
This video demonstrates how to fix and solve a broken pipeline in a GitLab merge request by rebasing through the terminal.