What is the purpose of a glossary in a technical document?

The purpose of a glossary in a technical document is to define terms that may be unfamiliar to the audience. Technical documents often include specialized language, jargon, and abbreviations that could be confusing to readers who may not have the same level of expertise or familiarity with the subject matter. A glossary serves as a valuable resource, providing clear definitions and explanations of these terms, which helps ensure that all readers can fully understand the content. By clarifying terminology, a glossary enhances the document's accessibility and facilitates better communication of the intended message.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of a glossary. An index of keywords might help locate specific topics within the document, but it's not the same as providing definitions for complex terms. Summarizing the entire document is typically done in an abstract or conclusion rather than in a glossary. Enhancing the graphical representation of the text pertains to visual elements and layout, which is not related to the purpose of defining and clarifying terminology.