Imagery is most commonly used to do what in a piece of writing?

Imagery is primarily used in writing to enhance the sensory experience of the reader. It involves the use of descriptive language that appeals to the senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell—in order to create vivid mental pictures and evoke emotions. By employing imagery, writers can immerse readers in a scene, making the experience more engaging and relatable. This sensory engagement allows readers to connect with the text on a deeper level, as it paints a rich and vivid picture that complements the themes and emotions conveyed in the narrative.

The other choices do play roles in writing, but they do not encapsulate the primary function of imagery as effectively as enhancing sensory experience does. Clarifying the plot, outlining characters, or providing historical context may involve different techniques and elements of storytelling that do not directly relate to the vividness and sensory appeal created through imagery.