Leading
Vertical spacing between lines of text, improving readability.
What is Leading?
Leading, pronounced "ledding," is the vertical space between lines of text, measured from baseline to baseline. It significantly impacts readability by creating visual harmony and preventing text from feeling cramped or too airy.
Example: A magazine article with long paragraphs would benefit from a larger leading value to improve readability.
Usage: Designers adjust leading to optimize readability in various applications, including websites, print materials, and mobile apps. Proper leading ensures a comfortable reading experience and enhances the overall visual harmony of a design.
Leading vs. Line Spacing
While both affect readability, leading focuses on vertical line spacing, while line spacing offers more general spacing control, including horizontal adjustments.
Leading vs. Kerning
Kerning adjusts space between individual letter pairs, improving readability, while leading manages vertical spacing between lines of text.
Leading vs. Tracking
Tracking adjusts spacing uniformly across a group of letters, while leading controls vertical spacing between lines of text, impacting readability.
Leading FAQs
How is leading measured?
Measured in points (pt), like font sizes. A common rule of thumb is to use leading 1.2 to 1.5 times the font size for comfortable readability.
Why is leading important in design?
Correct leading improves readability, allows readers to scan text easily, and enhances the overall visual appeal of a design.
How do I determine the appropriate leading for my design?
Factors include font size, typeface, line length, and the overall design aesthetic. Experimentation and visual assessment are key.
Can leading be applied selectively within a text block?
Yes, leading can be applied to individual paragraphs, headings, or even specific lines of text for emphasis or stylistic effects.
What is negative leading?
Negative leading can create overlapping text, often used for stylistic effects in headings or short lines. However, it can hinder readability in large blocks of text.