What is the primary purpose of using prototypes in web design?

The primary purpose of using prototypes in web design is to simulate user interfaces and gather feedback. Prototyping allows designers and developers to create interactive representations of a website or application without needing to write the final code. This approach is essential for understanding how users will interact with the design.

By creating a prototype, designers can visualize the layout, functionality, and flow of the user experience. Furthermore, it provides a tangible way to engage stakeholders and users, enabling them to provide input, test features, and assess usability before the full development process. This feedback is crucial as it helps identify any issues or areas for improvement early on, ultimately leading to a more user-centered design.

The other choices do not align with the primary role of prototypes in the design process. Creating final versions is the outcome of the design process rather than a purpose of prototyping. Optimizing images is a technical task unrelated to prototyping, and generating code automatically is a separate area of focus that does not encompass the feedback and user engagement aspects that prototypes facilitate.