Paper ballots are physical pieces of paper used in elections to record votes. Voters mark their choices on these ballots, which are then collected and counted to determine the outcome of the election. This method is often seen as straightforward and transparent, allowing voters to see their selections clearly. Using paper ballots can help ensure the integrity of the voting process. They provide a tangible record of each vote, which can be audited if necessary. Many jurisdictions use optical scan systems to read and tally the votes from paper ballots, combining traditional voting methods with modern technology for accuracy.