Final answer:
The author's purpose is to inform the readers about the wide-ranging negative consequences of sleep deprivation and to encourage them to assess and improve their own sleep habits.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author's purpose for writing the article on sleep deprivation appears to be primarily to inform the audience about the effects of lack of sleep. By presenting a host of negative consequences associated with inadequate sleep, including impacts on cognitive function, mental alertness, immune system performance, and the risks posed when driving or operating machinery, the article seeks to educate readers on the importance of sufficient sleep.
The article also references studies and includes a link to additional resources, encouraging readers to assess their own sleep habits and suggesting that changes in these habits could potentially lead to improved well-being.