What is the purpose of a putty knife?

The purpose of a putty knife is primarily for applying and smoothing putty. This tool features a flat, flexible blade that allows users to spread materials evenly, making it ideal for filling cracks, gaps, and holes in surfaces such as walls and furniture. When applying putty or caulk, the knife can help ensure a neat, even application, and its flexible nature enables it to conform to various surface contours, thereby creating a seamless finish.

While a putty knife might be mistaken for other tools that are utilized in construction or renovation tasks, its specific design and intended use center around handling putty, which makes the option of applying and smoothing putty the correct answer. Other tools in the construction toolkit are better suited for cutting, sawing, or drilling tasks, underlining the specialized role that the putty knife plays in finishing work.