Git Worktree Isolation Pattern
WorktreeIntermediate
Git worktrees let you check out multiple branches simultaneously in separate directories. This pattern leverages worktrees to run parallel Claude Code sessions -- each in its own directory with its own branch -- eliminating merge conflicts during development and enabling safe experimentation without polluting your main working tree.
worktreegitisolationparallel-development
Pattern Code
# Worktree Isolation Pattern
## Setup: Create isolated worktrees for parallel work
```bash
# Create a worktree for a feature branch
git worktree add .worktrees/feat-auth -b feat/auth
# Create a worktree for a bugfix
git worktree add .worktrees/fix-login -b fix/login-redirect
# Create a worktree for experimentation (detached HEAD)
git worktree add .worktrees/experiment --detach HEAD
```
## CLAUDE.md — Worktree-Aware Configuration
```markdown
# Project Rules
## Worktree Convention
- Each feature gets its own worktree under .worktrees/
- Never modify files outside your worktree directory
- Commit frequently -- worktrees share the same .git object store
- Run tests within your worktree before requesting merge
## Branch Naming
- feat/* for features, fix/* for bugfixes, exp/* for experiments
```
## Launch Claude in a worktree
```bash
# Start Claude Code in the isolated worktree
cd .worktrees/feat-auth
claude
# Or launch directly
claude --cwd .worktrees/feat-auth -p "Implement JWT auth middleware"
```
## Cleanup after merge
```bash
# Remove worktree after branch is merged
git worktree remove .worktrees/feat-auth
# Prune stale worktree references
git worktree prune
```
Copy this pattern into your project configuration to implement.
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Git Worktree Isolation Pattern
About Git Worktree Isolation Pattern
Claude Code patterns are proven architectural designs and workflow structures that help you tackle complex development scenarios. Git Worktree Isolation Pattern is a Worktree pattern at the Intermediate level that provides a tested, repeatable approach you can adapt to your projects for more efficient and consistent results.