What role do mockups play in graphic design?

Mockups serve a crucial role in graphic design by offering a tangible representation of the design concept. They allow designers and clients to visualize how a final product will look and function before any actual production begins. This representation can take various forms, such as digital images or physical prototypes, and helps in evaluating aspects like layout, color schemes, typography, and overall aesthetics.

Using mockups fosters better communication between designers and stakeholders by providing a realistic preview of the design. This can lead to more effective feedback and revisions, ensuring that the final product aligns closely with the client's vision. Additionally, mockups can be used to present ideas to potential customers, facilitating market testing and gathering insights on user preferences.

The other options do not accurately capture the purpose of mockups. Coding is necessary for the final product but is beyond the scope of what mockups provide. Focusing solely on textual elements neglects the broader visual context that mockups encompass. Finally, while mockups are significantly helpful in the design process, the final stage before release typically involves more comprehensive steps, including quality assurance and adjustments based on feedback from the mockup phase.