The profile view of the instrument approach chart gives the pilot a side view of the approach procedure to be flown.  The information provided includes all minimum altitudes for the approach, approach course, step-down fixes, final approach fix, and missed approach information.  Depending on the chart much more information is provided and understanding the profile view is essential to flying any instrument approach safely.  The profile view is the only view which gives the pilot safe altitudes for every segment of the approach.