What is the purpose of the rear derailleur limit screws and how do they affect the shifting performance of a bicycle?

The rear derailleur limit screws control the movement range of the derailleur, preventing it from shifting too far inwards or outwards. Properly adjusting these screws ensures precise shifting by keeping the chain aligned with the gears. If the limit screws are not set correctly, it can lead to issues like chain skipping or difficulty shifting between gears.