What is the purpose of HTML in web development?

The purpose of HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) in web development is primarily to structure content. HTML provides the foundational framework for web pages by defining elements such as headings, paragraphs, lists, links, images, and more. It allows developers to organize content in a hierarchical and semantic way, which is essential for both web browsers to render the information correctly and for search engines to index the content efficiently.

By using HTML, developers can create a clear structure that enhances user experience by guiding users through the content in a logical manner. Structuring content with HTML also improves accessibility, as it helps screen readers and other assistive technologies better interpret the content for users with disabilities. This structured approach is crucial as it serves as the backbone for presenting content on the web, while other technologies like CSS and JavaScript are used for styling and functionality respectively.