This guide explains how to abort a Git rebase, the differences between --abort, --quit, and --skip, and how to handle merge conflicts efficiently.

When Do Merge Conflicts Occur?

Merge conflicts occur when two commits modify the same line of code. During a rebase, Git may encounter conflicts while applying commits to a new base, requiring manual resolution.

How to Abort a Rebase in Git

Git provides three options to handle rebase interruptions:

1. git rebase --quit

Use this to exit the rebase process without altering the repository. It keeps the HEAD at its current position.

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git rebase --quit

Use Case:

  • Exiting a rebase without resetting the HEAD.
  • Cleaning up an improperly aborted rebase.

2. git rebase --abort

This option completely undoes the rebase, resetting the HEAD to the original branch.

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git rebase --abort

Use Case:

  • Discarding all changes made during the rebase.
  • Restoring the repository to its pre-rebase state.

3. git rebase --skip

Skip a problematic commit causing a conflict. The skipped commit will not be included in the rebase.

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git rebase --skip

Use Case:

  • Bypassing a specific commit to continue the rebase.
  • Removing a commit from the rebase history.

Rebase Abort vs. Quit: Key Differences

Option Effect
--abort Completely undoes the rebase, resetting the HEAD to the original branch.
--quit Exits the rebase process without resetting the HEAD, leaving the repository in its current state.
--skip Skips the current commit and continues the rebase.

Final Thoughts

Git provides three options to handle rebase interruptions:

  • Use --quit to exit without resetting.
  • Use --abort to undo the rebase entirely.
  • Use --skip to bypass a problematic commit.

Choose the appropriate option based on your needs to manage rebases effectively.