dev-branch-isolation

name	dev-branch-isolation
description	Prepare isolated git branches or worktrees for software-development tasks. Use before larger coding work when a clean branch, worktree, baseline verification, or separation from existing user changes is needed.
category	development

Dev Branch Isolation

Use this skill when larger work should be isolated from the current tree.

Workflow

1. Inspect current branch and git status --short.
2. Identify unrelated user changes and leave them untouched.
3. Prefer an ordinary branch for small or medium tasks.
4. Use a worktree only when parallel work, long-running experiments, or risky changes justify it.
5. Verify project setup in the isolated branch/worktree before coding.
6. Record the base branch and worktree path if created.

Guardrails

• Do not run destructive git commands.
• Do not move user changes into a new branch unless asked.
• Do not create worktrees inside ignored build output.
• Do not delete a worktree or branch without explicit instruction.