> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.cubic.dev/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Branching terminology

> Key Git and cubic terms for stacked development

When working with **stacked pull requests**, you'll encounter specific terms and concepts—both from Git and from cubic. Use this page as a quick reference for branch-related jargon.

<Info>
  Understanding these terms will help you navigate the stacked workflow more effectively and
  communicate better with your team.
</Info>

## Parent branch

A **parent branch** is the branch that your current branch is based on.

* In a stacked workflow, `feature_2` might have `feature_1` as its parent.
* Once `feature_1` merges, `feature_2` typically rebases onto the updated `main` (if needed).

## Child branch

A **child branch** is a branch whose parent is another active branch in the stack.

* For example, if `feature_2` depends on commits in `feature_1`, then `feature_2` is considered a child of `feature_1`.
* You can see these relationships by running [`mg list`](/reference/mg-list)

## Orphan branch

In cubic, an **orphan branch** is any branch that has been removed from the tracked stack. This can happen if you decide a branch is no longer relevant.

<Warning>
  When you orphan a branch, its children (if any) will need a new parent or might also become
  orphaned.
</Warning>

* You can orphan a branch with [`mg orphan`](/reference/mg-orphan).
* Once orphaned, its children (if any) will need a new parent or might also be orphaned.

## Sync

**Sync** refers to the process of updating your local branch (and its children) with the latest changes from the remote parent branch (often `main`).

<Tip>
  Regular syncing helps prevent merge conflicts from becoming too complex and keeps your branches
  current with the main codebase.
</Tip>

* Typically done via [`mg sync`](/reference/mg-sync).
* Sync can rebase or merge your branches, ensuring they stay current with teammates' commits.

## Upstream & downstream

These are general Git terms:

* **Upstream**: The remote branch or parent branch that your local branch tracks. In cubic's stacked model, `main` might be upstream for the root of your stack.
* **Downstream**: Branches that rely on your current branch or follow it in the commit chain. Child branches are downstream from their parent.