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Fix: Fatal: Not Possible to Fast-forward, Aborting
The easiest way is to use the fast-forward merge method
4 min. read
Updated onFebruary 21, 2024
updated onFebruary 21, 2024
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Key notes
Many users have complained about getting fatal: Not possible to fast-forward, aborting error message while trying to make a pull request.
If you have seen this message, that means, you made local commits on your branch that are not on the remote one, the changes are force-pushed to the remote branch, or the commit history of your local branch and the remote branch has diverged due to changes on both ends.
How can I fix the fatal: Not possible to fast forward, aborting issue?
1. Use the Fast-forward merge method
The simplest way to fix the fatal: Not possible to fast-forward, aborting error message is to merge. However, it is possible only if your local branch is contained within the remote branch.
To do the fast-forward merge, type the following command and hitEnter:git pull –ff-only
2. Use the git pull rebase command
To update a local branch with the changes from a remote branch, you can use a git command and hitEnter:git pull origin –rebase
The command integrates changes from the remote branch into the local one by applying each commit from the remote branch on top of the existing commits in the local one.
3. Use the Merge method
If your local branch is not contained within the remote branch, you can use the general method to merge. Although, it might cause merge conflicts, which need to be resolved manually. Follow these steps:
To fix these issues, you can also seek help fromGitHub Copilot, the AI assistant introduced by GitHub; read this guide to learn more about it.
4. Resolve differences between your local diverged branch and the remote branch
In case you want to merge the changes with the main branch on the remote repository, follow these steps to use a pull request on GitHub to do so:
Speaking of repositories, if you need help with creating a repository,uploading and hosting files; read this guide to learn more.
So to get rid of the fatal: Not possible to fast-forward, aborting error message; you need to understand the reasons behind it.
You can use fast-forward merges, rebasing, or standard merges to ensure your local and remote branches are aligned properly.
Also, find out how to fix theunable to update local referror onGit PullorGit Push.
In case you need help with other GitHub issues, such as theGitHub desktop app not opening; read this guide to learn the solutions.
If you have any questions or suggestions about the subject, don’t hesitate to mention them in the comments section below. We would be happy to help!
Srishti Sisodia
Windows Software Expert
Srishti Sisodia is an electronics engineer and writer with a passion for technology. She has extensive experience exploring the latest technological advancements and sharing her insights through informative blogs.
Her diverse interests bring a unique perspective to her work, and she approaches everything with commitment, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. That’s why she’s part of Windows Report’s Reviewers team, always willing to share the real-life experience with any software or hardware product. She’s also specialized in Azure, cloud computing, and AI.
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Srishti Sisodia
Windows Software Expert
She is an electronics engineer and writer with a passion for technology. Srishti is specialized in Azure, cloud computing, and AI.
