What are captions primarily used for?

Captions serve a crucial role in making video and audio content accessible to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as to those who might benefit from reading along while listening. The primary function of captions is to convey text versions of both speech and non-speech audio elements, such as sound effects or music cues, allowing viewers to fully understand and engage with the content. This not only enhances accessibility but also improves overall comprehension and enjoyment of the media, regardless of the viewer's ability to hear.

Other options do have their own significance, but they do not encompass the primary purpose of captions. For instance, providing additional commentary might be seen in certain contexts, but it goes beyond the main aim of captions. Similarly, while translations can be a function of subtitles, captions focus specifically on providing written text of spoken words and sound descriptions rather than translating them into different languages. Finally, interactive quizzes, while an engaging addition to some video formats, are not related to the fundamental purpose of captioning audio content. Thus, the correct answer highlights the primary function of captions as a vital tool for accessibility.