What are "text features" and why are they important?

"Text features" are elements within a text that help to enhance understanding and organization. These include items such as headings, subheadings, bullet points, captions, charts, and more. They serve to highlight important information, guide the reader through the material, and clarify the relationships between ideas and concepts.

The importance of text features lies primarily in their ability to aid readers in navigating the content more effectively. By drawing attention to key points and providing visual cues about the structure and organization of the text, these features facilitate comprehension, especially for complex information. They support the reader in grasping the flow of ideas and locating specific sections or details without having to read every word.

In contrast, other options address aspects that do not capture the core function of text features. For instance, illustrating the main character pertains more to narrative elements rather than structural aids. Decorative purposes may apply to some features but do not reflect their primary role in comprehension. Lastly, while text features can aid comprehension, they do not replace the need for readers to engage with the text itself meaningfully. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the essential function of guiding readers through the material and improving their understanding.