Static analysis is a method used in software development to examine code without executing it. This process helps identify potential errors, vulnerabilities, and coding standards violations early in the development cycle. By analyzing the source code, developers can ensure that their software is more reliable and maintainable. Tools for static analysis can automatically scan codebases and provide feedback on issues such as syntax errors, memory leaks, and security vulnerabilities. This proactive approach allows teams to address problems before they become more complex and costly to fix, ultimately leading to higher-quality software products.