Скачать или смотреть How to Clone a Repository from a Specific Branch in GitLab Using VS Code

Learn how to efficiently clone a specific branch of a GitLab repository using VS Code, without having a copy of the main branch locally.
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This video is based on the question https://stackoverflow.com/q/76134570/ asked by the user 'Donna Marie Magadia' ( https://stackoverflow.com/u/21769404/ ) and on the answer https://stackoverflow.com/a/76144343/ provided by the user 'olliebulle' ( https://stackoverflow.com/u/6710408/ ) at 'Stack Overflow' website. Thanks to these great users and Stackexchange community for their contributions.

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How to Clone a Repository from a Specific Branch in GitLab Using VS Code

If you're new to version control and using tools like VS Code, cloning a repository might seem straightforward, but it can be a challenge if you're unsure about which branch you need to work on. This guide addresses a common problem faced by newcomers: how to clone a repository from a specific branch instead of the main one, allowing you to manage your files more effectively. Let's break it down step-by-step.

The Issue at Hand

As a beginner using VS Code, you've successfully cloned a repository from GitLab but inadvertently placed your files on the main branch rather than a secondary branch. After realizing the mistake, you need to correct it by ensuring that you work exclusively in the designated branch. Here’s the question you'll want to answer:

How can you clone only the second branch to avoid having a copy of the main branch on your machine?

The Solution

Step 1: Start Fresh

To resolve this issue, it's best to start with a clean slate. Follow these steps closely:

Clone the Repository Again
Open your terminal and enter the command to clone the repository again. Ensure that you don’t have any pending changes in the existing folder.

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Open the Repo in VS Code
After cloning, navigate to the folder of the repository. You can do this through the VS Code interface or by using the command line.

Step 2: Checkout the Correct Branch

Use the Git Client in VS Code
Once you have your repo open in VS Code:

Look for the source control panel (usually found on the left menu).

Find the option to switch branches, often in the lower left corner of the VS Code window.

Select your desired branch (the second branch in your case).

Step 3: Manage Your Files

Add Your Files
Now that you’re on the correct branch, you can add your files. You can drag and drop or copy them into the appropriate folder within VS Code.

Commit and Push the Changes
After adding your files, remind yourself to commit and push your changes:

Use the Stage feature in the source control panel.

Write a meaningful commit message.

Click the commit button, followed by the push option to update the remote branch.

Additional Tips

Avoid Cloning the Main Branch Again
If you want to avoid having the main branch in your local setup altogether, ensure you clone only once and start in the correct branch as described above.

Visibility of Branch Changes
Remember, the changes you make after checking out a branch should appear in your file explorer. If switching branches doesn’t show any changes, double-check to see if the commits are on different heads or if they point to the same commit.

By following these steps, you can efficiently clone a repository from a specific branch without cluttering your workspace with unnecessary copies of the main branch.

Conclusion

Cloning a repository and managing your files might feel intimidating at first, but with a bit of practice, you’ll grow comfortable. Starting fresh, checking out the correct branch, and managing your files effectively will set a solid foundation for your work in Git and VS Code. Happy coding!