How to Use git stash to Save Work in Progress

Basic Commands

git stash              # Stash changes
git stash list         # View stash list
git stash pop          # Restore latest stash and delete it
git stash apply        # Restore latest stash (keep it in list)
git stash drop         # Delete latest stash
git stash clear        # Delete all stashes

Common Workflow

# Urgent fix needed while working on a feature
git stash
git switch hotfix
# Make and commit the fix
git switch main
git stash pop

Common Pitfalls

• git stash pop can cause conflicts if the stashed changes overlap
• New untracked files need the -u flag: git stash -u
• git stash clear cannot be undone — use with caution

After stashing, use Git Branch Basics to switch branches and come back when ready.

Related Posts

• Git Branch Basics: Create and Switch Branches
• How to Undo a Git Commit
• How to Resolve Merge Conflicts After git pull
• How to View Commit History with git log

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