How to use the command 'git delete-squashed-branches' (with examples)
The git delete-squashed-branches command is part of git-extras, a collection of Git utilities that augment the standard Git functionality. Specifically, this command is designed to clean up a repository by deleting branches that have been squash-merged into a specified branch. If no specific branch is mentioned, it defaults to the current checked-out branch. This is particularly useful in maintaining a tidy and efficient repository, as merged branches can clutter the workspace and occasionally lead to confusion.
Use case 1: Delete all branches that were “squash-merged” into the current checked out branch
Code:
git delete-squashed-branches
Motivation:
Often, when working on a large project, developers create numerous branches for different features or fixes. These are then ‘squash-merged’ into the main branch to maintain a clean history while preserving the contributions. However, after the merge, the feature branches can occupy space and create clutter in the repository. This command allows developers to keep their repository organized by removing branches that have already served their purpose. This process helps others when they navigate through the branches and simplifies their tasks by reducing the list of active branches.
Explanation:
git delete-squashed-branches: This command, without any additional arguments, acts on the current branch. It identifies and deletes branches that have been squash-merged into the branch you have currently checked out. The default behavior is to check the currently active branch against its recently squashed branches.
Example output:
Deleted branch feature-x (was a1b2c3d).
Deleted branch bugfix-y (was e4f5g6h).
All squashed-merged branches have been cleaned up.
Use case 2: Delete all branches that were “squash-merged” into a specific branch
Code:
git delete-squashed-branches branch_name
Motivation:
In some cases, developers need to clean up branches that have been merged into a specific branch, not necessarily the one that is currently checked out. For instance, you might want to remove all branches squash-merged into the development branch after performing a major integration. This helps in maintaining a clean structure in the development, staging, or testing branches, thwarting any potential confusion during critical phases like testing or deployment. Targeting a specific branch ensures that only those branches irrelevant to future development efforts on that line are removed, helping maintain order and clarity.
Explanation:
git delete-squashed-branches branch_name: By providingbranch_name, this command focuses on that particular branch instead of the current one. It checks that branch for any fully incorporated squash-merged branches and proceeds to delete them. This argument enhances the flexibility of the command by allowing targeted actions on any branch in the repository, regardless of which branch is active.
Example output:
Switching to branch 'main'.
Deleted branch feature-x (was i7j8k9l).
Deleted branch hotfix-a (was m0n1o2p).
All squashed-merged branches into 'main' have been removed.
Conclusion:
Overall, the git delete-squashed-branches command is a robust tool for developers looking to streamline their repositories. By automating the cleanup of merged branches, it mitigates clutter and increases efficiency, fostering a clean and manageable development environment. Whether targeting the current branch or a specified branch, this command offers indispensable functionality for development teams focused on agile and organized workflows.
