The
single transferable vote (
STV) is a
voting system designed to achieve
proportional representation through
ranked voting in multi-seat
constituencies (voting districts). Under STV, an elector (voter) has a single vote that is initially allocated to their most preferred
candidate and, as the count proceeds and candidates are either elected or eliminated, is transferred to other candidates according to the voter's stated preferences, in proportion to any surplus or discarded votes. The exact method of reapportioning votes can vary (see Counting methods).