Which of the following is a benefit of sketching for artists?

Sketching is a valuable practice for artists primarily because it facilitates experimentation with composition. Through sketching, artists can quickly explore various arrangements of elements within a piece, allowing them to play with ideas and perspectives before committing to a finished product. This process can lead to more innovative and well-considered artworks, as artists can visualize different approaches and make adjustments on the fly.

The ability to generate multiple rough drafts or ideas through sketching encourages creativity and exploration, making it an essential tool in the artistic process. Other options, such as requiring expensive materials, slowing down creativity, or solely focusing on detailed work, do not capture the essence of what makes sketching advantageous; instead, they describe potential hindrances or misconceptions about the practice.