Web development refers to the creation and maintenance of websites and web applications that run on the internet. It can be broadly categorized into three main areas: front-end, back-end, and full-stack development.

1. Front-end development focuses on the client side of web development. It involves creating the visual aspect of a web-site or web application that users interact with directly. This includes: HTML, CSS, Javascript, etc.
   Example: When you visit a website and see a well-designed page with images, text, and buttons that respond to your actions, you are interacting with the front end.

2. Back-end development focuses on the server side of web development. It involves managing the server, database, and application logic that power the front end. Common server-side language include Node.js, Python, Ruby, PHP and Java.
   Example: When you submit a form on a website and the data is stored in a database or processed by a server, you are interacting with the back end.

3. Full-stack development involves working on both the front end and back end of a web application. A full stack developer has knowledge and skills in both areas and can build complete web application from start to finish.

The Web Development Process

The process of web development typically involves several stages:

1. Planning and Research: Defining the goals and features of a website.
2. Design: Creating prototypes to visualize the layout and user experience.
3. Development: Writing code to build front end and back end of a website.
4. Testing: Ensuring that the website works correctly.
5. Deployment: Launching the website to a web server.
6. Maintenance and Updates: Continuously improving and updating the website.

Happy coding!