What is the purpose of docking a tart shell?

Docking a tart shell serves the important function of preventing the dough from puffing up during the baking process. When dough is baked, steam is generated from moisture within it, which can cause the crust to rise and potentially distort the shape of the tart. By using a fork or a docking tool to make small holes in the crust, you allow steam to escape, ensuring that the tart maintains its intended shape and structure while achieving an even texture.

While creating a decorative pattern on the crust offers visual appeal, it isn't the primary purpose of docking. Similarly, while some techniques may enhance flavor or texture, the key goal of docking is to control the baking process by managing the steam, which directly addresses the risk of puffiness in the dough. Therefore, preventing puffing is the most relevant explanation for the process of docking a tart shell.