What does the term "mockup" refer to in design?

In design, a "mockup" refers to a model or sample of a design used to showcase its visual appearance. It serves as a realistic representation of how the final product will look, allowing designers and stakeholders to visualize the layout, colors, and overall aesthetics before the actual production phase. This can be particularly valuable in various fields such as graphic design, web design, and product development, as it provides a tangible reference to assess and refine design concepts.

Mockups can take different forms, including digital representations that mimic the final output or physical prototypes. The purpose is to communicate ideas effectively and gather feedback, ensuring that the design aligns with the vision and requirements of the project.

The other options describe relevant aspects of the design process but do not capture the specific purpose of a mockup. A quick sketch reflects initial ideas but lacks the detail of a mockup. A detailed description of a design process is more about documentation than visualization. A software tool for creating digital graphics pertains to the technology used in design work rather than the tangible representation of a design concept.