How to update remote branch list on local machine?

(Update 2014-07-21: As per feedback from commenters)

If you are sure that remote server repo contains more branches and they are not shown when you type

$ git branch -a

OR

$ git branch -r

Then you have to update your remote list, by:

$ git remote update origin --prune

Assuming your remote is named as origin (This is true most of times).

(This post is originally published at https://junaidpven.wordpress.com/2011/12/29/how-to-update-remote-branch-list-on-local-machine/ . That was a blog I started to note and share tips while working on projects, and it was not a serious one.)