What is a primary function of an agenda in a meeting?

An agenda serves as a crucial tool in meetings by outlining the topics and issues to be discussed, effectively providing a roadmap for the flow of the meeting. This structured framework helps participants understand what to expect, allows for organized discussion of each topic, and ensures that all necessary points are covered within the available time. By clearly listing the agenda items, attendees can prepare in advance, which promotes efficiency and keeps the meeting focused on the objectives at hand.

While regulating speaking times, recording decisions, and summarizing past meetings are also important aspects of meeting management, they are secondary functions that support the primary role of facilitating structured discussions through a well-defined agenda.