Leading Adjustment is a typographic term that refers to the vertical space between lines of text, also known as line spacing or leading. In typography and graphic design, leading plays a crucial role in enhancing the readability and visual appeal of a text block. The term leading originated from the strips of lead that were traditionally used to separate lines of metal type in manual typesetting. Adjusting the leading involves increasing or decreasing the space between lines, which can significantly impact the overall appearance and legibility of the text. Designers carefully consider leading in relation to factors such as font size, line length, and the desired tone of the composition. Proper leading adjustment ensures that the text is not too cramped or too loose, allowing the reader's eye to move comfortably from one line to the next. It also contributes to the creation of a balanced and visually pleasing layout, as the interplay between text and whitespace can greatly influence the perceived texture and rhythm of the design. In digital typesetting, leading is measured in points, with one point equaling 1/72 of an inch. The default leading value is often set to 120% of the font size, but designers may adjust it based on the specific requirements of the project. Trivia: The term leading is derived from the lead strips used in manual typesetting, but it is pronounced as ledding to differentiate it from the metal lead.
typography, line spacing, readability, visual appeal, graphic design, legibility
CITATION : "Stephan Trump. 'Leading Adjustment.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=436104 (Accessed on June 07, 2025)"
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