Why did preprocessors become popular?

Preprocessors became popular due to:

• Improved organization and structuring of code: The ability to split styles into modules, use imports, and connect dependencies makes the code more readable and maintainable.
• Code reuse: Variables, mixins, and functions help avoid duplication of styles, simplifying maintenance and changes.
• Extended functionality: Built-in functions for working with colors, mathematical operations, loops, and conditional constructs expand CSS capabilities.
• Increased development productivity: Reducing the amount of code written, automating routine tasks, and simplifying maintenance speed up the development process.
• Compatibility and extensibility: Support for standard CSS constructs and the ability to create custom extensions make preprocessors flexible tools.

// Example of using a variable and a mixin
$primary-color: #3498db;

@mixin button-styles {
  padding: 10px 20px;
  border-radius: 5px;
  font-size: 16px;
}

.button {
  background-color: $primary-color;
  @include button-styles;
}