What is the purpose of anticipation in animation?

Anticipation in animation serves the essential purpose of building tension before an action occurs. This technique prepares the audience for what is about to happen, helping them to understand the character's intent and the dynamics of the action that will follow. By incorporating anticipation, animators give viewers a cue that something significant is about to take place, effectively engaging them and making the action more believable and impactful.

For instance, if a character is about to jump, anticipation might involve them crouching down or leaning back before launching into the air. This not only adds realism but also enhances the emotional connection viewers have with the character's experience. By setting the stage for the forthcoming motion, anticipation enriches the storytelling and visual dynamics within the animation, making it a fundamental element in the art of animation.