How to perform a code review in Git

· Category: Git

Short answer

Review code by examining the diff, testing locally if needed, and providing constructive feedback before approving.

Steps

  1. Read the PR description and linked tickets.
  2. Review the diff for logic, style, and security issues.
  3. Pull the branch locally if you need to test:
git fetch origin pull/123/head:pr-123
git checkout pr-123
  1. Leave comments and request changes or approve.

Tips

  • Focus on correctness, readability, and maintainability.
  • Use inline comments for specific lines.
  • Automate style checks so reviewers can focus on logic.

Common issues

  • Giant PRs are hard to review; request they be split.
  • Nitpicking every minor style issue slows the team down; rely on linters instead.