Ballot counting is the process of tallying votes cast during an election. After polls close, election officials collect and verify the ballots to ensure they are legitimate. This process can involve both manual counting and the use of machines designed to read and record votes accurately. Once the ballots are counted, the results are reported to the public and relevant authorities. Transparency is crucial in this process to maintain trust in the electoral system. Various safeguards, such as observers and audits, are often in place to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the count.