In design, which of the following tasks is often done before creating prototypes?

The task that is typically done before creating prototypes is research and analysis. This step is crucial as it involves understanding the needs of the target audience, identifying design requirements, and analyzing existing products or trends in the market. Conducting thorough research allows designers to gather essential data that informs their design choices, ensuring that the final product meets user expectations and stands out in the marketplace.

Research provides insights into functionality, aesthetics, and user experience, laying a solid foundation for subsequent design phases. By analyzing this information, designers can develop a clearer vision for their prototypes, making the design process more efficient and aligned with the intended objectives.

While other tasks like creating a color scheme, sketching preliminary ideas, and material selection are indeed important aspects of the design process, they all typically follow the research and analysis phase, which helps dictate the direction of those choices.