A postal code is the six-character alphanumeric code used by Canada Post to identify specific geographic delivery areas. The format alternates letters and numbers (like K1A 0B1 for Parliament Hill in Ottawa). The first three characters identify a broader area called a Forward Sortation Area (FSA), while the last three pinpoint a specific location. The first letter indicates the province or territory, with letters assigned geographically from east to west. Postal codes help mail reach destinations efficiently and are also used for demographic analysis, service delivery planning, and determining electoral districts.