What is the main function of keynotes in Revit?

Keynotes in Revit serve the primary purpose of referencing notes or specifications for project elements, which is crucial for effective communication within project documentation. By utilizing keynotes, architects and designers can add annotations to various components in a model, linking them to specific notes found in a standardized keynote file or legend. This enhances clarity and ensures that all stakeholders, including contractors and builders, are informed about the specifics of the materials, installation methods, and other details relevant to that component.

The use of keynotes streamlines the documentation process, as changes made to the keynotes can automatically update across all instances in the model, maintaining consistency. This function is essential in large projects where managing a multitude of specifications and notes can become complex. The design value lies not in aesthetics or visibility settings, but in providing a clear, organized approach to detailing the characteristics and requirements of elements in the project.