In nonfiction, what is the primary purpose of a caption?

• A. Provide a brief summary of the overall article
• B. Identify the author’s credentials
• C. Explain a graphic or image and connect it to the text
• D. Contain unrelated trivia

Answer: (C)

Captions in nonfiction are meant to bridge the image and the text by explaining what the image shows and linking it to the article’s content. They provide specific details the picture alone can’t convey—such as what is happening, who or what is pictured, where and when it was taken—and they show how the image supports or clarifies the surrounding writing. This helps readers interpret visuals in the context of the topic and stay oriented with the article’s message.

For example, a photo of a river during a flood might be accompanied by a caption that notes the location, date, and water level, tying the image directly to the discussion of flood risks in the text.

The other options don’t fit as well because captions aren’t meant to summarize the entire article, identify the author’s credentials, or contain unrelated trivia. They’re focused on clarifying and connecting a specific image to the main text.