Sequential processing refers to the method of handling tasks or data in a specific, linear order. In this approach, each step must be completed before the next one begins, ensuring that processes are executed one after another. This is commonly seen in traditional computing systems, where instructions are processed in a sequence, leading to predictable outcomes. In contrast to parallel processing, where multiple tasks are executed simultaneously, sequential processing can be simpler to implement but may be slower for large datasets. It is often used in applications like data analysis and program execution, where the order of operations is crucial for accuracy and reliability.