The main categories of software are _______.

The correct answer identifies the main categories of software as application and system. This distinction is fundamental in understanding the role of software in computing.

Application software is designed to perform specific tasks for users, such as word processing, spreadsheets, or database management. These applications serve end-users by helping them accomplish particular functions.

On the other hand, system software includes the operating system and all utility programs that manage computer resources at a more fundamental level. System software acts as an intermediary between the user applications and the hardware, ensuring that everything functions smoothly together.

The other options present various combinations that do not align with the standard categorizations in the field of software understanding. For instance, development software focuses more on programming environments rather than the categories in question, while utility software falls under system software but doesn't denote a separate main category. Hence, application and system software are the primary classifications recognized in the study of management information systems.