Git Rename Branch - How to Change a Local Branch Name?

Git branches are pivotal for managing project workflows, enabling developers to work on distinct features or fixes simultaneously. Renaming a Git branch is a fundamental task in maintaining project organization and clarity. This article explores various methods to change the name of a local branch in Git, ensuring seamless collaboration and code management within your repository. Whether you're optimizing branch names for clarity or aligning with project conventions, mastering Git's branch renaming capabilities is essential for effective version control.

How to Rename a Branch in Git

Renaming a local branch in Git can be done using several methods. Here are the ways you can change the name of a local branch:

Using the git branch command:

You can rename a local branch by using the git branch command with the -m option followed by the old branch name and the new branch name. For example:

git branch -m old_branch_name new_branch_name

Using the git checkout and git branch commands:

Another way to rename a local branch is by using a combination of git checkout and git branch commands. First, you check out to any other branch than the one you want to rename. Then, you rename the branch using the git branch -m command. Here's the sequence of commands:

git checkout any_other_branch
git branch -m old_branch_name new_branch_name

Using the git branch -m command:

You can also rename the current branch directly without checking out to another branch by using the -m option with git branch. Simply specify the new branch name after the -m option. For example:

git branch -m new_branch_name

Using the git branch -m command with HEAD:

If you're on the branch you want to rename, you can use HEAD as a shortcut instead of specifying the branch name. This will rename the current branch. Here's how:

git branch -m new_branch_name

Using git branch -m with a Remote Branch:

If you have already pushed the branch to a remote repository, you need to push the new branch name and delete the old one on the remote. This involves two steps:

git branch -m old_branch_name new_branch_name
git push origin :old_branch_name new_branch_name

These methods provide flexibility in renaming local branches in Git, enabling you to maintain a clean and organized repository structure.