How will we "officially" nominate a candidate?

[NoMoreRedInk]

I know we'll vote in caucuses and primaries, but I have no clue what it takes to get the actual nomination.

Is it all or nothing in each state (like the electoral college)?
Does 2nd place count?
Does it vary by state?

Where is a good source of information for the technical details on how it works?

Thanks in advance!

[indigo32]

1. Post this over in Politics and Campaigns

though folks like Goobergunch and Jiacinto might pick it up here.
I honestly don't know whether its a uniform thing (states being all or nothing or whatever) I do know that there are so called Superdelegates, free agents (former and currently elected officials) who have a vote at the convention outside of the delegates.

[NoMoreRedInk]

2. Thanks!***

nm