Using git pull and git fetch

Introduction¶

This Gemstone explains the differences between git pull and git fetch commands. It also outlines when to use each command appropriately.

Git Fetch vs Git Pull¶

Git Fetch¶

git fetch downloads changes from a remote repository but doesn't integrate them into your local branch.

Seeing what others have committed without merging those changes into your local branch is beneficial.

List the currently checked-out branch
```
git branch
```
Fetch changes from the main branch of a remote repo named origin. Type:
```
git fetch origin main
```
Compare the changes between the HEAD of your local repo and the remote origin/main repo.
```
git log HEAD..origin/main
```

Git Pull¶

Git Pull downloads changes and merges them into your current branch. It is useful for quickly updating your local branch with changes from the remote repository.

Pull and Merge Changes:
```
git pull origin main
```
Review merged changes:
```
git log
```

Additional Notes¶

Use git fetch: -- When you need to review changes before merging. -- To avoid unwanted changes or conflicts in your local branch.
Use git pull: -- When you want to update your local branch with the latest commits. -- For quick, straightforward updates without needing to review changes first.

Conclusion¶

Understanding the distinctions between git fetch and git pull is vital for effective Git workflow management. Choosing the right command based on your requirements is important when working or collaborating via version control systems like GitHub, GitLab, Gitea, etc.

Author: Wale Soyinka

Contributors: Ganna Zhyrnova