Git

What’s the Best Practice to “git clone” Into an Existing Folder?

The “$ git clone” command is used to copy the remote repository to the local repository and build the connection between them. Then, they can add changes to the source code files. After adding changes to the project code files, it is required to push the updated code to the remote repository. Git permits developers to clone the repository in the current local directory or any desired folder.

This write-up will talk about the method of cloning the remote repository into an existing folder.

How to Perform “git clone” Into an Existing Folder?

To clone a Git remote repository in the existing folder, try out the following instructions:

  • Navigate to the required Git repository
  • Check repository content.
  • Copy the remote repository URL.
  • Use the “$ git clone <remote-url> <desired-folder>” command.

Let’s implement the above-stated instructions!

Step 1: Move to Git Repository

Go to the Git repository by providing its path with the “cd” command:

$ cd "C:\Users\nazma\Git\test_004"

Step 2: List Content of Current Repository

Then, execute the “ls” command to list the content of the current repository:

$ ls

Step 3: Move to Existing Folder

Navigate to the existing folder through the “cd” command along with the folder name:

$ cd my_folder/

After that, view the content of navigated folder using the “ls” command:

$ ls

According to the below-given output, the folder is empty:

Step 4: Copy Remote Repository URL

Next, go to the particular remote repository and copy its HTTPS URL:

Step 5: Clone Repository in Existing Folder

Next, execute the “git clone” command along with the desired existing folder on which you want to clone the remote repository:

$ git clone https://github.com/GitUser0422/demo5.git my_folder

Here, the folder name is placed at the end of the remote repository URL:

Step 6: Move to Particular Folder

Next, move to the folder in which the remote repository is cloned:

$ cd my_folder/

Lastly, run the “ls” command:

$ ls

The below-highlighted output indicates that the remote repository is cloned successfully in the specified existing folder:

We have compiled the method of cloning the remote repository into an existing folder.

Conclusion

To clone a Git remote repository in the existing folder, move to the required Git repository and view its content. Then, copy the remote repository URL and execute the “$ git clone <remote-url> <desired-folder>” command, and verify the cloned repository. This write-up described the procedure of cloning the remote repository into an existing folder.

About the author

Maria Naz

I hold a master's degree in computer science. I am passionate about my work, exploring new technologies, learning programming languages, and I love to share my knowledge with the world.