Exit polls help us better understand who came out to vote, how different groups of people voted and how they feel about some of the biggest issues of the campaign.

On Election Day, as votes are being tallied and news organizations await results and race projections that can be reported, exit polls are a critical tool providing an early look at who is voting and what’s motivating their choices.

With Election Day upon us and millions of Americans lining up to cast their ballot, some may also complete exit polls. Here's what they mean.