Git Worktree
An additional working directory linked to the same Git repository so multiple branches can be checked out at once.
Plain English
Work on another branch in a separate folder without cloning the repository again.
In context
Git worktrees share repository history and objects while keeping checked-out files and branch state in distinct directories.
Example
“Create a worktree for the hotfix while the feature branch remains open.”
When you'll hear this
- parallel development
- code review
- release fixes
Common misunderstanding
A worktree is not a separate repository and deleting its folder manually may leave Git metadata behind.
Also known as
worktreegit work tree
Commonly used by
Related terms
Updated: 2026-08-26
