Why is it essential to test software regularly?

Testing software regularly is crucial because it allows developers to identify and fix bugs early in the development process. By catching issues at this stage, developers can avoid the compounding effects of bugs that might go unnoticed until later in the project when they can become more expensive and time-consuming to resolve. Regular testing helps ensure the software achieves its quality standards and meets user expectations.

Additionally, testing can provide immediate feedback on new features and functionalities, enabling developers to iterate quickly and efficiently. This practice ultimately leads to a more stable and reliable software product, enhancing user experience and satisfaction. In contrast, adding features quickly, generating user documentation, or creating marketing materials do not directly address the core purpose of software testing, which is focused on quality assurance.