Description: A precondition is a condition that must be true before a function is executed. In programming, preconditions are essential to ensure that a function operates correctly and produces expected results. These conditions may include validating input parameters, the state of an object, or any other circumstance that must be met before execution. If preconditions are not met, the function may throw errors or exhibit unexpected behavior. Preconditions are a crucial part of robust software design, as they help prevent failures and improve code maintainability. In many programming languages, assertions are used to check preconditions, while in other environments, they can be implemented through validations in various layers of an application. Clarity in defining preconditions also facilitates collaboration among developers, as it sets clear expectations on how a function should be used. In summary, preconditions are a key concept in programming that ensures functions are executed in an appropriate context, contributing to software stability and reliability.