What is the primary purpose of a catalog?

The primary purpose of a catalog is to provide a complete list of items organized in a systematic order. This organization allows users to easily find and access the information they need. Whether it's a catalog of books in a library, products in a store, or items in a collection, the format is designed to facilitate navigation and retrieval of specific entries. For example, catalogs often categorize items by type, subject, or other relevant criteria, making it efficient for users to search for particular items without having to sift through unrelated content. This clear structure is what distinguishes catalogs from other forms of written materials that may focus on narrative or analytical content.