The method used to determine the possible outcome of an electoral contest is

The method used to determine the possible outcome of an electoral contest is an "opinion poll". Opinion polls are surveys conducted by polling organizations to estimate the likely voting intentions of the electorate. They ask a representative sample of people for their opinions on the candidates or parties standing for election, and use statistical methods to estimate the likely result of the election based on the responses received. Opinion polls are an important tool for political parties, candidates, and voters to gauge the public mood and adjust their strategies accordingly.