What is the purpose of a caption in a nonfiction image or diagram?

• A. To explain or clarify what the image shows and highlight key information.
• B. To decorate the page with words.
• C. To replace the main text.
• D. To provide an unrelated joke.

Answer: (A)

Captions explain and connect. They help you understand what the image or diagram shows by naming parts, defining terms, and noting important details like measurements, dates, or steps. A caption gives context so you can see how the picture fits with the surrounding text and why it matters, which makes the information easier to grasp quickly. It’s not about decoration or replacing the main text, and it shouldn’t be a joke. For example, a caption on a diagram of the water cycle might label evaporation, condensation, and precipitation and briefly describe what each part does.