Git & GitHub Interview Question #28
How do you delete a Git branch?
Remotes, Fetch, Pull, Push, Merge, Conflicts, Rebase & Stash Junior Beginner
Quick Interview Answer
git branch -d deletes a local branch when Git considers the deletion safe, such as when its work has been merged appropriately. The -D option forces local deletion even when Git detects unmerged work.
Detailed Explanation
git branch -d deletes a local branch when Git considers the deletion safe, such as when its work has been merged appropriately. The -D option forces local deletion even when Git detects unmerged work.
For remote branches, deletion is normally requested through git push with --delete. Always verify that important commits are preserved before force-deleting a branch.
Code Example
# Safe local deletion
git branch -d feature/login
# Force local deletion
git branch -D feature/login
# Delete from remote
git push origin --delete feature/login