Using Git Worktrees

---
name: using-git-worktrees
description: Use when starting feature work that needs isolation from current workspace or before executing implementation plans
---

# Using Git Worktrees

## Overview

Ensure work happens in an isolated workspace. Prefer your platform's native worktree tools. Fall back to manual git worktrees only when no native tool is available.

**Core principle:** Detect existing isolation first. Then use native tools. Then fall back to git.

## Step 0: Detect Existing Isolation
Check if already in an isolated workspace using `git rev-parse --git-dir` and `git rev-parse --git-common-dir`.
If GIT_DIR != GIT_COMMON, you are already in a linked worktree. Skip to project setup.

## Step 1: Create Isolated Workspace
Prefer native worktree tools. Fall back to `git worktree add`.

## Step 3: Project Setup
Auto-detect and run appropriate setup (npm install, cargo build, pip install, etc.).

## Step 4: Verify Clean Baseline
Run tests to ensure workspace starts clean.

## Quick Reference
| Situation | Action |
|-----------|--------|
| Already in linked worktree | Skip creation |
| Native worktree tool available | Use it |
| No native tool | Git worktree fallback |