First, repeating the simple definition: AR is a divisor method, but instead of using a formula to find its rounding-point, it, during the trial of a particular quota, chooses each cycle's rounding point so that the sum of the seats awarded to the states in that cycle is as near as possible to the sum of the quotas possessed by those states. The quota giving 435 seats must be found by trial and error.
Detailed instructions: Definition of trying a quota: Divide each state's population by that quota, to get that state's q. Cycle 0 contains the states whose q is less than 1 Cycle 1 contains the states whose q is at least 1 but less than 2 Cycle n contains the states whose q is at least n but less than n+1 For each cycle, add up the sum of the q of the states it contains. Round off to the nearest whole number. Divide that whole number of seats among that cycle's states in such a way that no larger state in that cycle has fewer seats than any smaller state in that cycle. [end of definition of trying a cycle] Try the Hare quota. The Hare quota is the U.S. population divided by 435. If that trial doesn't award 435 seats, then find, by trial and error, a quota that does. Suggestion: If a quota award, say, only 432 seats, then multiply it by 435/432 to find the next quota to try. [end of detailed instructions for AR] Mike Ossipoff ---- election-methods mailing list - see http://electorama.com/em for list info
