What visual representation primarily shows the exterior view of a structure?

The visual representation that primarily shows the exterior view of a structure is the elevation plan. This type of drawing provides a flat representation of one side of the building, illustrating features such as windows, doors, and the overall aesthetic. Elevation plans are crucial for understanding how the building will appear from various angles and are often used for presentations, construction, and permitting purposes.

In contrast, while a section plan provides a cut-through view of the structure to reveal internal features, it does not depict the exterior as an elevation would. A floor plan, on the other hand, shows the layout of a building from above, indicating walls, rooms, and spaces, but again, lacks the external perspective. Detail plans focus on specific components or areas of the construction in greater detail rather than giving an overview of the building's exterior. Thus, the elevation plan is the most appropriate choice for representing the exterior view of a structure.