Which of the following best defines the goal of requirements analysis in testing?

The goal of requirements analysis in testing is fundamentally to comprehend and clearly document what the software is intended to achieve. This process involves a deep understanding of the functional and non-functional requirements specified by stakeholders. By defining the expected behaviors and features of the software, testers can ensure that tests align closely with these requirements, which is crucial for effective testing. This alignment not only helps in verifying that the software meets its specified goals but also aids in identifying any gaps or ambiguities in the requirements. A thorough requirements analysis also sets the stage for risk assessment, test design, and test case development, which are all vital components of the testing process.

Gathering software requirements from stakeholders, while important, is just a part of the broader requirements analysis process. Evaluating the testing environment has a different focus, centering on the technical aspects of testing rather than understanding requirements. Lastly, preparing a testing schedule and budget is an important logistical task, but it does not address the core goal of analyzing what the software is meant to accomplish.