A census is a systematic process of collecting and recording information about the members of a population. This usually includes details like age, gender, occupation, and where people live. Governments conduct censuses to understand the demographics of their country, which helps in planning services like schools, hospitals, and roads. Every ten years, many countries, including the United States, carry out a national census. The data gathered is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring that resources are allocated fairly. It also helps researchers and businesses understand trends and changes in society over time.