What is version control in software development?

Version control in software development refers to a system for managing changes to software code over time. This process allows developers to track and manage modifications to the codebase, ensuring that they can easily revert to previous versions if needed, collaborate on projects with multiple contributors, and maintain a clear history of development progress. Version control systems enable developers to branch and merge different lines of code, facilitating experimentation and parallel development without disrupting the main codebase.

In contrast, the other options describe different aspects of the software development lifecycle. Testing software before release is crucial for ensuring quality and functionality but does not involve tracking changes over time. Monitoring software performance is vital for maintaining application efficiency and user experience, but it is unrelated to managing code revisions. Documenting user requirements is essential during the planning phase of software development, focusing on capturing what users need rather than managing code changes. Overall, version control specifically deals with the nuances of code management, making it the correct choice in this context.