What does coverage criteria in software testing ensure?

Coverage criteria in software testing focuses on ensuring that every program statement is executed at least once during the testing process. This practice is vital because it allows testers to verify that all parts of the code have been exercised, which helps to identify any hidden bugs or logic errors that may exist within the software. By ensuring that each statement is executed, the testing process can highlight areas that may need further scrutiny or additional testing, ensuring a more robust and reliable software product.

In the context of software testing, simply testing all features simultaneously does not guarantee comprehensive coverage, nor does it ensure that each line of code has been appropriately verified. Additionally, while striving to produce software that is free of bugs is a significant goal, achieving complete bug-freedom is typically unattainable, as the presence of bugs can depend on numerous factors not easily tested. Lastly, while confirming that all user requirements are met is crucial for the overall quality assurance process, this aspect does not directly relate to code coverage, which is more specifically focused on the execution of program statements.