A voting mechanism is a system that allows individuals to express their preferences or choices in decision-making processes, such as elections. It can take various forms, including first-past-the-post, ranked choice, or proportional representation. Each method has its own rules for counting votes and determining winners, impacting how representative the outcome is of the voters' preferences. In many democratic systems, voting mechanisms are designed to ensure fairness and transparency. Voters typically cast their ballots in private, and the results are counted and reported publicly. This process helps maintain trust in the electoral system and encourages civic participation among citizens.