explainer
How the Census Works: Counting a Whole Country Every 10 Years
The US census counts every resident once a decade, setting House seats and guiding public funding. Here is how the count is run and kept confidential.
How Elections Are Counted: A Plain-English Walkthrough
Elections are counted in stages, from tallying to canvass to certification, and early totals are unofficial. Here is how the process works in general terms.
How Time Zones Work: Why the World Runs on Many Clocks
Time zones divide the world into regions sharing the same clock time. Learn how UTC, offsets, the date line, and daylight saving fit together.
How Weather Forecasts Work: From Satellites to Your App
Forecasts blend observations, computer models, and human judgment, and they are probabilities, not promises. Here is how the process works from start to finish.
What Inflation Reports Measure, and What They Leave Out
Inflation reports track the average change in prices for a basket of goods and services. Learn how the figure is built and how to read it sensibly.