What does self-describing mean in relation to XML?

Self-describing in the context of XML refers to the ability of the format to provide meaningful information about the data it contains through the use of elements and attribute names. Each XML document can define its structure and the types of data it holds using tags that are descriptive of the content. For instance, an XML element might be named <author> rather than just <a>, which makes it clear what type of data is being represented without needing additional context.

This capability enhances readability and makes it easier for both humans and machines to understand and utilize the data. It also enables data interchange between different systems by providing clear definitions of data structures directly within the data itself, facilitating better integration and processing.

In contrast, the other options either pertain to different aspects of data encoding or do not accurately describe the core concept of self-describing formats in XML. For example, identifying types of data is an element of self-describing formats but doesn't fully capture the essence, as does indicating a binary format or allowing multiple languages, which relates more to other characteristics of data formats.