In graphic design, what term describes the process of adjusting the spacing between characters?

The process of adjusting the spacing between individual characters in a piece of text is referred to as kerning. This technique is important in graphic design because it affects the readability and overall aesthetic of the text. Proper kerning ensures that the spaces between characters are visually appealing and consistent, which can enhance the design and impact of the message being conveyed.

Leading, on the other hand, relates to the vertical spacing between lines of text, affecting how text is arranged vertically in a paragraph. Tracking adjusts the overall spacing between groups of characters across a full section of text, while alignment deals with the positioning of text in relation to its surrounding elements (like left, right, centered, or justified). Each of these terms serves a specific purpose in typography, but kerning specifically focuses on the fine-tuning of space between two adjacent letters to create a harmonious visual structure.