What is the main purpose of a sketch in engineering?

The main purpose of a sketch in engineering is to communicate an idea clearly. Sketches serve as a quick and effective way to visualize concepts and share them with others. They allow engineers and designers to convey their thoughts, designs, or modifications without the need for detailed specifications or technical drawings. This fluid and informal method encourages collaboration and the quick iteration of ideas, often acting as the first step in the design process before moving on to more formalized drawings.

While detailed specifications are important, they are typically found in finalized documentation rather than sketches. Sketches are not meant to replace technical drawings; instead, they often lead to them, acting as preliminary representations. Enhancing artistic expression is less relevant in the context of engineering sketches, where the focus is primarily on clarity and functionality rather than on artistic considerations.