Inkscape natively edits SVG... anything done in the GUI rewrites the XML. You can see it, and change it if you are wanting something more than the GUI has controls for.
The SVG specification (definitions, conventions, syntax, etc.) are guided by the same group that guides the specifications for the web: the W3C. The SVG file format was created for the web, and evolves alongside the evolution of web technology.
That said, the SVG specification may include features that are not fully developed, not fully supported by all renderers (browsers and other programs) and might not be implemented into Inkscape's functionality.
The XML editor is a way to review and edit the XML without always using a separate text/unix editor.
SVG is stored as an XML format file. I never had a need for it in 12 years until recently. Needed it to eliminate decimal number in the path data so it wouldn't cause profile issues in Autodesk Fusion 360 with my symbol library. I don't like going into the XML weeds generally but I am thankful that Inkscape had that capability.
Beginners' Questions XML Editor
Inkscape.org
When this editor is used? When is needed? What are the benefits using it?
Is there any source to learn more about this?
Inkscape natively edits SVG... anything done in the GUI rewrites the XML. You can see it, and change it if you are wanting something more than the GUI has controls for.
The SVG specification (definitions, conventions, syntax, etc.) are guided by the same group that guides the specifications for the web: the W3C. The SVG file format was created for the web, and evolves alongside the evolution of web technology.
That said, the SVG specification may include features that are not fully developed, not fully supported by all renderers (browsers and other programs) and might not be implemented into Inkscape's functionality.
The XML editor is a way to review and edit the XML without always using a separate text/unix editor.
SVG is stored as an XML format file. I never had a need for it in 12 years until recently. Needed it to eliminate decimal number in the path data so it wouldn't cause profile issues in Autodesk Fusion 360 with my symbol library. I don't like going into the XML weeds generally but I am thankful that Inkscape had that capability.
A good start:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SVG