Canvassing 101

Canvassing — going door to door to talk with voters — is the single most effective way to change minds and win elections. If you're new to it, this guide has everything you need to know.

What Is Canvassing?

Canvassing is simply having conversations with people at their homes about issues and candidates. You walk through a neighborhood with a list of addresses, knock on doors, and talk to whoever answers. It sounds simple because it is — and it works.

Research shows that a single face-to-face conversation at the door can increase voter turnout by 8-10%. That's huge. No phone call, text, or ad comes close.

Why It Matters

• It's personal — voters remember a real conversation more than any mailer

• It's effective — door-to-door contact is the gold standard of voter outreach

• It's informative — you learn what people actually care about

• It builds community — you're connecting neighbors to the democratic process

What to Expect

Here's what a typical canvass looks like:

• Briefing — you'll meet at a staging location where an organizer explains the plan, hands out materials, and runs through the script

• Pairing up — new canvassers usually pair with someone experienced

• Walking the turf — you'll head out with your walk list and knock doors for 1.5 to 3 hours

• Debrief — you come back, share stories, and log any final notes

The briefing gives you everything you need before heading out

Walking your turf with the app guiding your route

The Numbers

On average, you'll knock about 30-50 doors per shift. About a third of people will answer. That means you'll have 10-15 real conversations in a typical canvass. Not bad for a Saturday morning!

Do I Need Experience?

Nope. Zero experience required. Every canvasser started by knocking their first door feeling nervous. You'll have a script, a partner, and a phone with everything you need. The hardest part is just showing up — and you've already decided to do that.

The app walks you through each conversation at the door

Ready to Go Deeper?

• Using your walk list

• Conversation tips

• Staying safe while canvassing