# Branch

> Create git branches with a username prefix. Use when creating new branches, checking out new branches, or when the user asks to start work on a feature, fix, or task.

- Skill: `observeinc/branch` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add observeinc/branch`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/observeinc/branch/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Productivity
- Author: observeinc (https://skillmd.com/u/observeinc)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/observeinc/branch

---


# Branch Naming

All new branches must be prefixed with the current user's name.

## Format

```
<username>/<branch-name>
```

## Determining the Username

Run `whoami` or extract the user from the system environment to get the current
username. Use that as the prefix.

## Branch Name Rules

- Prefix with `<username>/` followed by a short, descriptive kebab-case name
- Use lowercase letters, numbers, and hyphens only for the branch name portion
- Keep it concise but descriptive

## Examples

```
cole/add-user-auth
cole/fix-query-timeout
cole/update-dependencies
```

## Workflow

1. Determine the username (e.g. via `whoami`)
2. Construct the branch name as `<username>/<descriptive-name>`
3. Create the branch with `git checkout -b <username>/<descriptive-name>`