Ballot Paper

By /

The paper on which a voter marks their choice in an election.

Category: Parliament and elections

Also used as: ballot papers, ballot

Source / explainer: Read Electoral Commission guidance

Last reviewed: 3 August 2026

A ballot paper is the paper given to a voter so they can mark their choice in an election. In a UK parliamentary election, it lists the candidates standing in the constituency. Ballot papers are counted after polling closes to determine the result.

Related terms

CandidateA person standing for election to public office.CountThe process of counting ballot papers after polling closes.Polling StationA place where voters go to cast their vote in person.Postal VoteA vote cast by post instead of in person at a polling station.
Scroll to Top