What trade-offs come with Trunk-Based Development vs Long-Lived Branches?

Answers use simple, clear English.

Quick interview answer

Pros: Smaller PRs; continuous integration truly continuous. Cons: Needs solid CI and flag discipline.

Detailed answer

Trade-offs for Trunk-Based Development vs Long-Lived Branches: Pros: Smaller PRs; continuous integration truly continuous. Cons: Needs solid CI and flag discipline. Decision rule: choose Trunk-Based Development vs Long-Lived Branches when the benefits outweigh operational cost for your SLO. Parent context: Simple view: Short-lived branches merge to main frequently; feature flags hide incomplete work. Long-lived release branches increase merge pain and drift.

Full explanation

Strong answers state both sides and when you would pick an alternative. Pros: Smaller PRs; continuous integration truly continuous. Cons: Needs solid CI and flag discipline.

Follow-up questions

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Parent context — Trunk-Based Development vs Long-Lived Branches

Simple view: Short-lived branches merge to main frequently; feature flags hide incomplete work. Long-lived release branches increase merge pain and drift.

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