What is the purpose of an agenda in a meeting?

The purpose of an agenda in a meeting is to outline the order of business for the meeting. An agenda serves as a roadmap that helps guide participants through the various topics that will be discussed, ensuring that the meeting remains focused and organized. By having a structured agenda, members can prepare for the topics in advance and ensure that important issues are addressed in a timely manner. This contributes to effective time management and enhances the overall productivity of the meeting, helping to achieve the desired outcomes efficiently.

While attendance tracking, fostering a social atmosphere, and summarizing points can be aspects of a meeting, they do not encompass the primary role of the agenda. The agenda's main function is to provide clarity on the sequence and content of discussions, allowing for a structured approach to tackling agenda items.