Reading Your Ballot Before Election Day: A Non-Partisan Guide to Understanding Ballot Questions

Many voters walk into the voting booth knowing exactly who they will choose for the top races, then find themselves surprised by everything else on the ballot. Local offices they have never heard of. Ballot questions written in dense legal language. Lists of candidates for boards and committees. It is easy to feel unprepared.

The good news is that you can review your ballot well before Election Day. Taking a little time in the fall to read and research helps you vote with confidence. This guide offers a strictly non-partisan approach to preparing, with no recommendations on how to vote.

What Might Be on Your Ballot

Ballots vary by state, city, town and even precinct. A typical New England ballot in a fall election might include:

• Federal offices, depending on the year
• Statewide offices, depending on the year
• State legislative seats
• County offices, in some states
• Local offices in some communities, depending on the election calendar
• Statewide ballot questions
• Local ballot questions

In Massachusetts, statewide ballot questions can ask voters to approve or reject proposed laws or constitutional amendments. Local questions might address issues such as funding for schools or other local matters.

Step One: Find Your Sample Ballot

A sample ballot shows exactly what will appear on your ballot. To find yours:

1. Visit your state’s official election website. In Massachusetts, the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s Elections Division provides voter information and tools to look up what is on your ballot.
2. Contact your city or town clerk’s office, which can often share sample ballots for your precinct.
3. Check your local library, which may have printed copies.

Step Two: Read the Official Voter Information

In Massachusetts, the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office publishes official information for voters about statewide ballot questions before many state elections. It typically includes the text of each question, a summary and arguments from supporters and opponents. Other states provide similar guides. These official materials are a good starting point because they present multiple sides.

Step Three: Understand What a Yes or No Vote Means

Ballot questions can be confusing because the wording does not always make clear what a yes or no vote does. Read carefully:

• Look for the official statement explaining what a yes vote would do and what a no vote would do.
• Pay attention to whether the question changes current law or keeps it the same.
• Note whether there are costs, deadlines or other effects described in official materials.
• If something is unclear, contact your local election office or look for neutral explanations from libraries or nonpartisan civic education groups.

Step Four: Learn About Lesser-Known Offices

Down-ballot offices can have a big impact on daily life, but get less attention. For each office, ask:

• What does this office actually do?
• How long is the term?
• Who are the candidates, and what have they said publicly about the role?

Neutral sources for this information can include official election websites, local news coverage, candidate forums hosted by libraries or civic groups, and candidates’ own published statements. Be aware that candidate materials and advocacy groups present their own viewpoints.

Step Five: Evaluate Information Carefully

During election season, lots of information circulates, and not all of it is accurate. Practical tips:

• Check who created a message or ad, and why.
• Look for the same information from more than one reliable source.
• Be cautious with social media posts that make dramatic claims without evidence.
• Remember that official election information, such as dates, polling places and rules, should come from official election offices.
• Ask a librarian for help finding reliable sources. Many libraries offer guidance on evaluating information.

Step Six: Make Notes

Once you have done your research, it can help to jot down your choices on a sample ballot or a piece of paper. In many places, including Massachusetts, voters can bring personal notes into the voting booth to help them remember. Check your state’s rules, and be sure not to display campaign materials inside the polling area, where electioneering is restricted.

Hosting a Non-Partisan Ballot Study Night

Neighbors can learn together by hosting a ballot study gathering. To keep it fair and welcoming:

1. Announce that the event is strictly educational and non-partisan.
2. Use official voter information and sample ballots as the main materials.
3. Read each ballot question aloud and review the official summary.
4. Share what a yes and no vote would mean, according to official sources.
5. Avoid advocating for any position or candidate.
6. Let people ask questions and find answers together.
7. Encourage everyone to make their own decisions.

Libraries and community centers are often good hosts for this kind of event.

Helping Neighbors Prepare

Some neighbors may appreciate help reading and understanding ballot materials, especially older adults, people with limited English or first-time voters. Offer to sit with them as they review official information, read aloud if asked and help them find answers. Never tell anyone how to vote. Election offices can often provide materials in multiple languages and accessible formats.

Planning How and When to Vote

While reviewing your ballot, also confirm your voting plan:

• Are you registered at your current address?
• Will you vote early, by mail or on Election Day, where those options are available?
• Where is your polling place, and what are the hours?
• Do you need a ride or other accommodations?

Check official sources for current options and deadlines.

Prepared Voters, Stronger Communities

Every item on a ballot affects your community in some way. By preparing ahead, finding reliable information and helping neighbors do the same, you strengthen local democracy for everyone, no matter how they vote.