Ballots

Ballots are documents or electronic interfaces used to cast votes in elections, referendums, or internal organizational decisions. They are designed to capture voter intent while maintaining secrecy, allowing accurate tallying, and providing a verifiable record of the vote.

Types of ballots include paper ballots, punch-card ballots, lever ballots, electronic ballots that tally votes digitally, and ballot marking devices that generate a voter-verified paper record. Paper ballots can be hand-marked and counted by optical scanners or by hand. Punch-card and lever systems represent older technology. Mail-in ballots are ballots sent by mail, typically paper, with instructions for returning them.

Design and counting: Ballots list candidates and measures and are shaped by layout, font, and instructions to minimize confusion. They incorporate security features to deter manipulation and errors. Counting methods vary from manual counting to optical scanning and direct-recording electronic systems. After an election, audits and, in some jurisdictions, risk-limiting audits or recounts help verify results. Proper ballot design, testing, and secure chain-of-custody procedures are essential to accuracy.

Accessibility and language: Ballots should accommodate diverse voters, offering multilingual options, large print, high contrast, tactile formats, and audio or screen-reader assistance for people with disabilities.

History: The secret ballot concept gained prominence in the 19th century as a reform to reduce bribery and intimidation associated with public voting. The so-called Australian ballot and related reforms contributed to standardized secret ballots widely used in modern elections.