What is an agenda in a business meeting?

An agenda in a business meeting serves as a structured outline of the specific topics and items that are to be discussed during the meeting. It acts as a guiding document for participants, ensuring that the conversation remains focused and organized around key points. Having a clear agenda helps attendees prepare for the discussion by providing them with an understanding of what to expect, allowing them to gather necessary information, and contribute effectively to each topic on the list.

Creating an agenda also aids in time management, as it allows the meeting facilitator to allocate appropriate time slots for each item, ensuring that the meeting progresses efficiently. By clearly listing the discussion topics, an agenda promotes transparency and accountability, making it easier for all participants to engage with the outcomes expected from the meeting.

Other options, while relevant to the context of meetings, serve different purposes. A report of previous meetings reflects past discussions, a record of attendance summarizes who was present, and a meeting's conclusion summary recaps the points discussed and decisions made. None of these fulfill the primary function of an agenda, which is to delineate the items slated for discussion.