Solving Git Push Error: ‘failed to push some refs’ (3 ways)

The Problem

The error failed to push some refs in Git can be a hiccup for any developer. This error typically suggests that there are changes in the remote repository that you do not have locally. In this guide, we will explore the common reasons for this error and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

Solution 1: Pull Before Push

This is the most straightforward solution. It implies that your local branch is behind the remote branch. Pulling the latest changes can solve this.

Steps:

1. Run git pull origin your_branch_name to fetch and merge changes from the remote branch.
2. If there are merge conflicts, resolve them.
3. Commit the merge conflicts resolution if necessary.
4. Run git push origin your_branch_name to push your changes again.

Example:

> git pull origin master

* [new branch]      master     -> origin/master
Already up to date.

> git push origin master

Total 0 (delta 0), reused 0 (delta 0)
To https://github.com/username/repo.git
   b3452e3..f4b2h3j master -> master

Notes: This solution is ideal for simple cases where your local repository is just out-of-date. However, it can cause merge conflicts that you will need to resolve manually.

Solution 2: Force Push

A force push can override the current state of the remote repository with your local state. Use this with caution, as it can overwrite changes in the remote.

What you need to do is just running this command: git push -f origin your_branch_name.

Example:

> git push -f origin master

Total 0 (delta 0), reused 0 (delta 0)
To https://github.com/username/repo.git
 + 2a1046e...3fca03d master -> master (forced update)

Notes: Force push should be used sparingly and usually in a solo project. If working in a team, coordinating with your colleagues before a force push is recommended to avoid overwriting their changes.

Solution 3: Check for Uncommitted Changes

Sometimes the error occurs because there are changes that haven’t been committed locally.

Steps:

1. Run git status to check for uncommitted changes.
2. Commit the changes with git commit -m 'Your commit message'.
3. Try pushing again with git push origin your_branch_name.

Example:

> git status

On branch master
Changes not staged for commit:
  (use "git add <file>..." to update what will be committed)
  (use "git restore <file>..." to discard changes in working directory)
        modified:   sample.txt

> git add sample.txt
> git commit -m 'Update sample.txt'

[master 9d82h3f] Update sample.txt
 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+)

> git push origin master

Total 0 (delta 0), reused 0 (delta 0)
To https://github.com/username/repo.git
   b3452e3..9d82h3f master -> master

Notes: This is a common oversight, but one that is easily fixed. Always ensure that all your changes are committed before attempting to push.

Final Words

Understanding these solutions is crucial for smooth Git operations. Troubleshoot mindfully, especially when you’re working with others. Communication and coordination are key in a collaborative environment. Review the state of your local and remote repositories regularly to avoid surprises when pushing changes.