What animation principle suggests actions that predict what will happen next?

The principle that suggests actions that predict what will happen next is anticipation. This animation principle is essential in storytelling and visual communication, as it prepares the audience for an action that is about to occur. When an animator uses anticipation effectively, they indicate to viewers what is coming next, allowing for a smoother transition between actions.

For instance, if a character is about to jump, the animator may show them crouching down and gathering strength before the leap. This not only makes the animation more realistic but also engages the audience by giving them a cue about what to expect. Anticipation adds a layer of clarity to the action, enhancing the audience's emotional connection and comprehension of the scene.

In contrast, staging involves presenting an action clearly for the audience, follow through refers to the natural movements that occur after an action, and secondary action adds nuance to primary movements without directly influencing the main action. Each of these principles contributes to animation but does not specifically focus on what occurs ahead of time like anticipation does.