A rendering is sometimes referred to as a what?

A rendering is commonly referred to as a presentation drawing because it is designed to visually communicate the aesthetics and details of a proposed design. Presentation drawings effectively illustrate how a finished project will look, often utilizing color, shading, and texture to bring concepts to life. These drawings serve not only to present ideas to clients but can also be used for marketing purposes, helping stakeholders envision the final product.

In contrast, drafting typically refers to the technical drawings that provide precise measurements and construction details, which focus more on practical execution rather than visual appeal. Prototypes are physical models created to test concepts or technologies, and technical diagrams usually convey specific technical information, often used in engineering or systems design. Each of these alternatives has its own distinct purpose but does not capture the essence of what a rendering—focused on presentation and visualization—truly represents.