What is the method used for proposing changes to a protected branch that allows for review and approval?

The method used for proposing changes to a protected branch that allows for review and approval is commonly referred to as a Pull Request. This process is integral to modern version control workflows, especially in collaborative software development environments.

When a developer wants to make changes to a codebase, they create a separate branch for their modifications. A Pull Request is then issued to signal the desire to merge these changes back into the main or protected branch. This submission invites team members to review the proposed changes, discuss potential impacts, and provide feedback. It serves as a formal mechanism for code review and quality assurance, giving project maintainers the opportunity to assess and approve changes before they become part of the main codebase.

This approach enhances collaboration by facilitating discussions around the specific code modifications and enabling teams to ensure that any updates align with project goals and standards. Thus, Pull Requests are essential for maintaining code integrity in environments where multiple contributors are involved.