# Branches and worktrees

Create or select a branch, use a separate worktree for parallel isolated work, confirm its path, and merge only after validation.

![Branches and worktrees in Foxora Desktop v5.0.3](/docs/images/v5.0.3/desktop/stage-source-control.webp)

## Where this lives

Open a Git-backed project, then choose **Stage → Source control**.

Source control shows repository status, diffs, staging, commits, branches, worktrees, and conflict state associated with the active project and task.

> **Safety:** Never discard, reset, force-push, or overwrite changes merely to obtain a clean status. Preserve work before recovery operations.

## Steps

1. Open a Git-backed project, then choose **Stage → Source control**.
2. Create or select a branch.
3. Use a separate worktree for parallel isolated work.
4. Confirm its path, and merge only after validation.
5. **Confirm the result.** Run tests, inspect `git status`, and review the final commit diff or pull request.

## Choose the right path

- Use a branch for isolated work.
- Use a worktree when parallel tasks need separate working directories.
- Create a checkpoint before risky conflict resolution.


## Confirm it worked

- Run tests, inspect `git status`, and review the final commit diff or pull request.
- The screen, command, file, run, or destination named in this guide reflects the expected state.