What does "refactoring" mean in software development?

Refactoring in software development refers to the process of restructuring existing code without altering its external behavior. This means that while the internal structure and organization of the code may be modified to improve readability, maintainability, or performance, the way the code functions from the perspective of the user remains the same.

By focusing on improving the code's structure, developers can eliminate redundancy, clarify complex segments, and enhance overall quality without introducing new features or changing existing functionality. This practice often leads to easier debugging and future development because it allows for a cleaner codebase that is easier to understand and work with.

Enhancements through refactoring can include renaming variables for better clarity, breaking down large functions into smaller, more manageable ones, or changing the architecture of the code while preserving the output it delivers. This approach is crucial for long-term project sustainability, as it keeps the code adaptable and easier to maintain as requirements evolve.