Software engineering is a discipline that involves the application of engineering principles to the design, development, maintenance, testing, and evaluation of the software and systems that enable computers to perform their various applications.
Design is about creating a solution to solve a problem. In software engineering, this typically involves creating a software architecture, which is a blueprint for how the software will be structured.
Development involves actually writing the code for the software. This typically involves using one or more programming languages, such as Java, Python, or C++.
Maintenance involves fixing any issues that arise with the software after it has been released. This could involve fixing bugs, improving performance, or adding new features.
Testing involves checking the software to make sure it works as expected. This can involve a variety of techniques, including unit testing, integration testing, and system testing.
Evaluation involves assessing the software to make sure it meets its intended purpose. This can involve measuring the software's performance, its usability, its reliability, and its security.
Software engineering is a complex, multifaceted discipline that requires a wide range of skills, including problem-solving, programming, and project management. By applying engineering principles to software, software engineers strive to create software that is robust, efficient, and effective.