What does an appendix typically contain in a technical document?

An appendix in a technical document serves the purpose of providing additional information that supports or enhances the main content but is not essential to its understanding. This section allows the author to include supplementary materials, such as detailed data, methodologies, or extended explanations that might otherwise disrupt the flow of the primary text. This way, readers who wish to delve deeper into the topic can find relevant information without overwhelming those who may only want the main points.

While graphs and statistics can be part of an appendix and can help illustrate the findings in detail, they do not entirely define the scope of what an appendix contains. Summaries of key points are typically found in other sections of a document, like the conclusion or abstract, rather than in the appendix. Additionally, limiting an appendix to only graphics and illustrations overlooks the broader range of content it can include, which might encompass text, tables, or references that provide clarity and context to the main work. Therefore, the choice that emphasizes additional information related to the main content accurately captures the role of the appendix in technical writing.