What does a function do in programming?

A function in programming serves as a reusable block of code that performs a specific task. This encapsulation allows developers to write a piece of code once and call it multiple times throughout a program without having to rewrite the logic each time. Functions help in organizing code into manageable sections, making it easier to understand, maintain, and debug.

When a developer needs to perform an operation—such as calculating a sum, processing input, or interacting with a database—they can create a function that standardizes this behavior. This reduces redundancy and enhances code clarity since similar tasks can be handled through a common function call, often improving overall efficiency and reducing the likelihood of errors.

While some functions might indeed store data, execute commands, or enhance readability, their primary role is to provide a means to encapsulate behavior in a modular fashion, thereby streamlining development and maintenance processes.