Which of the following is NOT a common author's purpose?

The purpose of an author in writing can typically fall into several distinct categories, such as to inform, amuse, or persuade. However, the choice of 'confuse' does not align with these common purposes. While some texts may unintentionally lead to confusion due to unclear writing or complex subject matter, authors generally aim to communicate ideas clearly and effectively. Informing seeks to provide knowledge or information, amusing is focused on entertaining the audience, and persuading aims to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint or action. Therefore, since authors do not typically set out to confuse their readers as a primary goal, the correct answer highlights a distinction between effective authorial intent and what one might mistakenly perceive as a purpose.