What is the difference between git merge and git rebase?

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Answered by suresh

What is the difference between git merge and git rebase? - Interview Question

The Difference between git merge and git rebase

Git merge and git rebase are both commonly used commands in Git for integrating changes from one branch to another. The main difference between the two lies in how they accomplish this integration:

  • Git Merge: This command combines the histories of two branches by creating a new commit that incorporates changes from both branches. This results in a linear history, with a merge commit showing the combined changes.
  • Git Rebase: When you rebase, Git moves the starting point of one branch to a new base commit, effectively reapplying each of its commits on top of the new base. This results in a cleaner history without merge commits, but can rewrite commit history.

Choosing between git merge and git rebase depends on your workflow and the desired outcome. Git merge is suitable for preserving history and maintaining a clear record of merges, while git rebase is useful for creating a linear, cleaner history. Understanding when to use each command is essential for efficient version control management.

Answer for Question: What is the difference between git merge and git rebase?