Refactoring is the process of restructuring existing computer code without changing its external behavior. The main goal is to improve the code's readability, maintainability, and performance. By simplifying complex code and removing redundancies, developers can make it easier to understand and modify in the future.
This practice is often performed during the software development lifecycle, especially when adding new features or fixing bugs. Regular refactoring helps prevent technical debt, which can accumulate when quick fixes are made without considering long-term implications. Overall, it contributes to a cleaner codebase and enhances collaboration among software development teams.