How do I delete a Git branch locally and remotely?

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How to Delete a Git Branch Locally and Remotely

Deleting Git branches is a common task when you want to clean up branches that are no longer needed. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to delete a Git branch both locally and remotely.

Deleting a Local Git Branch

To delete a local branch, you can use the git branch command with the -d or -D option.

Using '-d' (Safe Delete)

The -d option deletes the branch only if it has been fully merged into its upstream branch. This is a safe way to delete branches to avoid losing work.

Command:

git branch -d branch_name

Example:

git branch -d feature-branch

Using '-D' (Force Delete)

The -D option force deletes the branch, even if it has not been merged. Use this with caution as it can lead to data loss.

Command:

git branch -D branch_name

Example:

git branch -D feature-branch

Deleting a Remote Git Branch

To delete a remote branch, you use the git push command with the --delete option.

Command:

git push remote_name --delete branch_name

Example:

git push origin --delete feature-branch

Alternatively, you can use the more explicit form with a colon (:) syntax:

Command:

git push remote_name :branch_name

Example:

git push origin :feature-branch

Summary

Delete a Local Branch

Safe Delete (only if fully merged):
```
git branch -d branch_name
```
Force Delete (even if not merged):
```
git branch -D branch_name
```

Delete a Remote Branch

Using --delete option:

git push remote_name --delete branch_name

Using colon (:) syntax:
```
git push remote_name :branch_name
```

Example Workflow

Suppose you have a branch named feature-branch that you want to delete both locally and remotely.

Delete the local branch:
```
git branch -d feature-branch
```
If the branch is not fully merged and you still want to delete it:
```
git branch -D feature-branch
```

Delete the remote branch:

git push origin --delete feature-branch

Alternatively:

git push origin :feature-branch

By following these steps, you can effectively clean up branches in your Git repository.

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