Squash Merge
Squash merge is a Git version control operation that combines all commits from a feature branch into a single commit when merging into the main branch. It simplifies the project history by condensing multiple commits into one, making it easier to track changes and maintain a clean, linear commit log. This is commonly used in workflows like GitHub Flow or GitFlow to keep the main branch tidy and readable.
Developers should use squash merge when working on feature branches to avoid cluttering the main branch with intermediate commits, such as 'fix typo' or 'update test', which can obscure the overall purpose of the change. It's ideal for projects that prioritize a clean, linear history for easier debugging, code reviews, and release management, especially in team environments where multiple contributors are merging frequently.