The insect life cycle typically consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The cycle begins when an adult insect lays eggs, which hatch into larvae. These larvae often look very different from the adult and are primarily focused on eating and growing. After a period of growth, the larvae enter the pupal stage, where they undergo transformation. This stage is crucial as the insect develops its adult features. Finally, the adult insect emerges from the pupa, ready to reproduce and continue the life cycle.