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name: finishing-a-development-branch description: Use when all implementation tasks are complete and verified - provides structured workflow to verify tests, present merge options, and execute cleanup

Finishing a Development Branch

Overview

Verify tests pass, present options, execute choice, and clean up.

Core principle: Test verification before any merge or PR action.

The Process

Step 1: Verify Tests

Before anything else, verify tests pass:

Run appropriate test command for project type.

Cannot proceed with merge/PR until tests pass.

Step 2: Present Options

Present exactly four choices:

1. Merge back to base branch locally
2. Push and create Pull Request
3. Keep the branch as-is for later
4. Discard the work entirely

Keep explanations minimal - just present options.

Step 3: Execute Choice

Based on user selection:

• Option 1: Merge, remove worktree
• Option 2: Push, create PR, preserve worktree
• Option 3: No changes, preserve worktree
• Option 4: Confirm (require typed "discard"), then remove worktree

Step 4: Cleanup

Remove worktrees only for:

• Option 1 (merge)
• Option 4 (discard)

Preserve worktrees for:

• Option 2 (PR creation)
• Option 3 (keep branch)

Safety Measures

• Test gate: Must pass before any merge/PR
• Discard confirmation: Requires typed confirmation
• Selective cleanup: Only removes worktrees when appropriate

Common Pitfalls

• Skipping test verification
• Asking vague follow-up questions
• Automatic cleanup that removes needed worktrees