In terms of coding, what is debugging?

Debugging refers to the process of identifying and fixing errors or bugs in a codebase. It is a crucial part of software development since even small mistakes can lead to significant issues or malfunctions in the program. Debugging is not merely about finding errors; it also involves understanding the underlying reasons for these errors and implementing solutions to correct them, thereby ensuring that the code functions as intended.

This process can vary in complexity, depending on the specifics of the code and the nature of the bug. Debugging might include techniques such as using debugging tools, writing test cases, or manually tracing through the code to locate faulty logic or misconfigurations.

While options related to writing new code, duplicating code, or compiling relate to different aspects of the programming process, they do not directly address the essential activity of identifying and rectifying existing issues within the code. Debugging stands out as a focused and critical phase in the software development lifecycle, aimed at enhancing code quality and performance.