What is the primary purpose of a test case in software development?

The primary purpose of a test case in software development is to ensure that the program responds as expected. A test case is a set of conditions or variables under which a tester determines whether a software application or system functions as intended. This involves checking the outputs against expected results for a variety of inputs. By executing test cases, developers can identify defects or issues within the software, which allows them to improve the quality and reliability of the application before it is released to end users.

While comparing software versions, analyzing user feedback, and managing project risks are important aspects of software development, they do not directly relate to the specific function of a test case. Test cases are focused solely on verifying that the software meets its requirements and behaves correctly under specified conditions. This makes ensuring the program's expected response the central focus of creating and executing test cases.