What is the primary purpose of an agenda in a meeting?

The primary purpose of an agenda in a meeting is to outline topics and keep the meeting focused. An agenda serves as a roadmap for the discussion, helping participants understand what will be covered and ensuring that all necessary points are addressed within the allotted time. By providing a structured outline of topics, the agenda helps to facilitate effective communication, encourages participation, and prevents the conversation from veering off track.

While assigning roles to participants, taking minutes, and delivering presentations are important aspects of effective meetings, they are not the central purpose of an agenda. Instead, they can be components of the broader meeting process that relies on the agenda to guide its flow. By ensuring that the meeting stays focused on the outlined topics, the agenda ultimately boosts productivity and enhances the overall effectiveness of the meeting.