The reason for this task is that your attic space sits between the insulation in your ceiling (the floor of the attic) and your roof. If air circulation in this region is not adequate, your attic will be too warm in the winter and too hot in the summer.
Too much warmth in the attic in the winter can lead to the formation of ice dams in snowy climates. In summer your air conditioner will have to work harder and use more energy.