What is the purpose of leading in typography?

Leading in typography refers to the vertical spacing between lines of text, and its primary purpose is to enhance readability and overall aesthetics. Proper leading helps prevent text from appearing too crowded or too spaced out, allowing readers to follow lines more easily. It can also influence the tone and style of the text, contributing to the overall design and flow of a layout. Adjusting leading appropriately can significantly impact the effectiveness of communication in printed and digital media.