About worktrees
Git worktrees let you check out multiple branches of the same repository at the same time, each in its own directory on your computer. This means you can work on a feature branch, quickly review a pull request on a different branch, or make a hotfix without stashing or committing incomplete work on your current branch.
GitHub Desktop provides built-in support for creating, switching between, renaming, and deleting worktrees. When your repository has worktrees, a Worktree dropdown appears in the toolbar between the Repository and Branch dropdowns.
Note
The Worktree dropdown is only visible when you have at least one linked worktree. To create your first worktree, use the Repository menu or right-click the Repository dropdown in the toolbar.
Each worktree is associated with a branch (or a detached HEAD commit). The main worktree is your original repository clone, and linked worktrees are additional checkouts you create.
Creating a worktree
You can create a new worktree from the Repository menu, by right-clicking the Repository dropdown in the toolbar, or (once you already have worktrees) from the Worktree dropdown.
Creating your first worktree
If your repository does not have any linked worktrees yet, the Worktree dropdown is not visible in the toolbar. To create your first worktree:
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In the menu bar, click Repository, then click New Worktree….
Alternatively, right-click the Repository dropdown in the toolbar and click New Worktree….
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In the "Add worktree" dialog, type a name for your worktree in the Worktree name field.
GitHub Desktop automatically determines the path where the worktree will be created, based on the name you enter. The full path is displayed at the bottom of the dialog.
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Optionally, in the Branch name field, type or select a branch name.
