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What are the specific advantages of using Git Worktree instead of stashing your work and checking out a branch?

I've heard you aren't able to checkout multiple branches on a single worktree folder. I've also heard the speed and ease of switching between branches/worktree folders makes up for any limitations.

Emmanuel
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    There are cases when you just _can't_ stash/switch.... an easy one: I am in the middle of a big merge, I have already worked on a a few conflicting files..... I need to do something else, there is _no way_ I will take that back.... I create a separate worktree, do whatever I need and then I delete the worktree. – eftshift0 Aug 30 '23 at 13:26
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    Anoter use-case is when you have a long process (cron, compilation, whatever) running on some branch's files and you need to work on something else. You can't checkout another branch because it would disrupt the ongoing task. Open a worktree and work on it while the first worktree finishes up. – Romain Valeri Aug 30 '23 at 13:29

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Advantages of Git Worktree over stashing and checking out a branch:

  1. Simultaneous Branches: One of the primary advantages of Git Worktree is that you can have multiple branches checked out simultaneously in separate working trees. This means you can easily switch between branches without losing the context of your work on other branches.
  2. Context Preservation: Git Worktree preserves the uncommitted changes in your working directory across branches. When you stash and switch branches, you lose the context of your changes, which can be inconvenient if you're frequently switching between branches.
  3. Independent Workspaces: Each worktree has its own isolated workspace, allowing you to have different build configurations, environment variables, and project settings for different branches.

Advantages of stashing and checking out a branch:

  1. Simplicity: The stash and checkout method is simpler for users who might not be familiar with Git Worktree. It involves fewer commands and concepts to grasp.
  2. Limited Workspace Clutter: If you're working on a small project or dealing with limited disk space, stashing and checking out can help keep the workspace tidy.
vlanto
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