What does it mean to say presidential primaries/caucus are indirect elections?

A state's primary election or caucus is usually an indirect election: instead of voters directly selecting a particular person running for president, they determine the number of delegates each party's national convention will receive from their respective state.

In the US voting system, there are two rounds of voting generally every two and four years. First, a primary or a caucus is held. During those, voters pick a party nominee. For example, in a Democratic primary, voters (often but not necessarily registered as Democrats) would pick among Democratic candidates for an office. The winner of that election then goes on to run in the general election against the nominees of the other parties.

But, what is the difference between a primary and a caucus? Why do some states have one but not the other? If you’re confused on this point, you’re not alone. But we’ve got you covered in this electoral rundown.