How to Apply Stash Changes in Git?

Git is a versatile version control system that allows developers to manage their code effectively. One of Git’s powerful features is stashing, which temporarily saves changes in your working directory without committing them. This is particularly useful when you need to switch branches or work on something else but want to save your progress.

In this blog, we’ll focus on how to apply stashed changes in Git, walking you through the process step by step and addressing common scenarios.

What is Git Stash?

The git stash command saves your uncommitted changes and clears your working directory. This enables you to switch contexts or pull updates without committing incomplete work. Stashed changes are stored in a stack, and you can apply them later.

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How to Apply Stash Changes in Git

Step 1: View Your Current Stashes

Before applying a stash, you might want to see the list of stashes. Use:

git stash list  

This command displays all stashed changes in your repository with unique identifiers. For example:

stash@{0}: WIP on main: Update README.md
stash@{1}: WIP on feature-branch: Fix UI bugs

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Step 2: Apply the Latest Stash

To apply the most recent stash without removing it from the stash list, use:

git stash apply  

This command restores the changes saved in the latest stash (stash@{0}) to your working directory.

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Step 3: Apply a Specific Stash

If you have multiple stashes and want to apply a specific one, specify its identifier:

git stash apply stash@{n}  

Replace stash@{n} with the desired stash, such as stash@{1}.

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Step 4: Apply and Remove a Stash

To apply the latest stash and remove it from the stash list, use:

git stash pop  

If you want to apply and remove a specific stash, specify its identifier:

git stash pop stash@{n}  

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Step 5: Handle Merge Conflicts (If Any)

When applying stashed changes, conflicts may occur if the stashed changes overlap with the current working directory. Git will notify you about the conflicts. To resolve them:

1. Open the conflicting files and make the necessary adjustments.
2. Mark the conflicts as resolved: git add <file>
3. Commit the resolved changes: git commit

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Additional Stash Operations

1. List All Stashes

As mentioned earlier, you can view all stashes with:

git stash list  

2. Inspect the Contents of a Stash

To see what’s inside a stash before applying it:

git stash show stash@{n}  

For a more detailed view, add the -p flag:

git stash show -p stash@{n}  

3. Drop a Stash

If you no longer need a stash, remove it with:

git stash drop stash@{n}  

To clear all stashes:

git stash clear  

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Best Practices for Stashing and Applying Changes

1. Label Your Stashes: Use descriptive messages to make it easier to identify stashes. git stash save "WIP: Refactoring login feature"
2. Check for Updates Before Applying: Ensure your branch is up-to-date to minimize conflicts.
3. Resolve Conflicts Immediately: Address merge conflicts as soon as they arise to avoid confusion later.
4. Avoid Long-Term Stashes: Stashes are meant for temporary storage. Commit or drop stashes you no longer need.

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Common Use Cases for Applying Stash Changes

• Switching Branches: Temporarily save changes while switching to another branch.
• Pulling Updates: Stash uncommitted changes to pull the latest code from the repository.
• Experimentation: Save progress while experimenting with a different implementation.

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Conclusion

Applying stashed changes in Git is a simple yet essential skill for developers who need to manage temporary work efficiently. Whether you’re switching tasks or resolving conflicts, knowing how to apply stashed changes ensures you can seamlessly return to your previous work without losing progress.

By following the steps and best practices outlined in this guide, you can confidently manage your Git stashes and maintain a smooth workflow.