In programming and software tools, what is the primary use of a pretty printer when working with source code or structured text?

Introduction / Context:
Pretty printers are common in programming environments, integrated development environments, and code quality tools. They are used with languages such as C, Java, JavaScript, and many others. This question tests whether you understand the main purpose of a pretty printer, which is closely related to code readability, maintainability, and collaboration within a development team.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are dealing with source code or structured text such as JSON, XML, or configuration files.
• The tool mentioned is called a pretty printer.
• We want to identify the main function of this tool.
• Compilation, encryption, and design tasks are separate activities that may be handled by different tools.

Concept / Approach:
A pretty printer is designed to take code or structured text and reformat it into a consistent, readable style. This includes adjusting indentation, spacing, and line breaks, as well as sometimes aligning braces or keywords. The goal is not to change the meaning of the code but to make it visually cleaner. To answer the question, we look for the option that focuses on formatting and readability rather than compilation, security, or graphic design.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Recall that pretty printing is sometimes called code beautification or formatting.2. Option A says a pretty printer reformats source code or structured text so that it is easier to read and consistently indented, which matches the standard description.3. Option B describes compilation, which converts high level code into machine code, a different process handled by compilers.4. Option C refers to encryption, which hides the content of code rather than making it prettier.5. Option D focuses on decorative fonts for marketing, which is unrelated to code formatting.6. Because only Option A captures the idea of formatting and readability, Option A is the correct choice.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider popular development tools such as integrated development environments or online code formatters. When you choose the format code option, the tool rearranges white space and line breaks but does not alter the logic. This is exactly what a pretty printer does. Documentation for such tools emphasises their role in enforcing coding standards and improving readability, which confirms the explanation in Option A.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B is wrong because compilation is a separate translation process that may occur after or before formatting, but is not the same as pretty printing.Option C is wrong because encryption is oriented toward security and confidentiality, not readability.Option D is wrong because graphic printing for marketing materials is unrelated to code formatting and is done by design software.

Common Pitfalls:
A frequent misunderstanding is to think that pretty printing changes how a program runs. In reality, it changes only white space and formatting, which most programming languages ignore. However, consistent formatting is still important because it makes it easier to spot bugs, follow control structures, and collaborate in teams. Another pitfall is to neglect formatting entirely and rely only on the compiler, which can lead to code that is correct but very hard to maintain.

Final Answer:
A pretty printer reformats source code or structured text to be easier to read and consistently indented.