How to Rename Branch on GitHub: A Step-by-Step Guide
Renaming a branch on GitHub is a common task for developers, especially when organizing their repositories or preparing for a feature release. Whether you want to correct a typo in your branch name or align it with a new project name, this guide will walk you through the process of renaming a branch on GitHub. By following these simple steps, you can easily rename your branch and maintain a clean and organized repository.
Step 1: Open Your GitHub Repository
The first step in renaming a branch on GitHub is to open the repository where you want to make the change. You can do this by navigating to the GitHub website, logging in, and clicking on the repository you wish to modify.
Step 2: Access the Branches Section
Once you are in your repository, locate the “Branches” section on the right-hand side of the page. This section displays a list of all branches in your repository, including the branch you want to rename.
Step 3: Rename the Branch
Click on the branch name you want to rename. This will open a new page showing the branch’s commit history. At the top of the page, you will see the branch name followed by a small pencil icon. Click on the pencil icon to rename the branch.
Step 4: Enter the New Branch Name
A pop-up window will appear, allowing you to enter the new branch name. Make sure to choose a descriptive and consistent name that reflects the purpose of the branch. Once you have entered the new name, click “Rename branch” to confirm the change.
Step 5: Commit the Rename
After renaming the branch, GitHub will prompt you to commit the change. This is a necessary step to ensure that the branch name is updated in the repository’s history. Click “Commit” to finalize the rename.
Step 6: Verify the Rename
Once the commit is complete, navigate back to the “Branches” section. You should now see the branch listed with its new name. To ensure the rename was successful, you can also check the branch’s commit history to confirm that the branch name has been updated.
Conclusion
Renaming a branch on GitHub is a straightforward process that can help you maintain a clean and organized repository. By following these six simple steps, you can easily rename a branch and keep your project’s codebase well-structured. Remember to choose a descriptive and consistent name for your branches to make collaboration and code management more efficient.
