ROBERT'S RULES OF ORDER:

MOTIONS MADE SIMPLE

There are generally 4 parts to any action the body takes.

  1. Someone makes the Main Motion

  2. Someone seconds the Main Motion

  3. Body discussion (on most motions, a few motions prohibit discussion and go straight to a vote)

  4. Vote (some motions need a simple majority which is 50%+1 and some motions need a 2/3 majority to pass)

1. COMMON MOTIONS (and how to use them)

  • Main Motion – Propose a new action or idea.

    • "I move that we..."

  • Amend – Modify a motion under discussion.

    • "I move to amend the motion by..."

  • Table – Temporarily set aside a motion.

    • "I move to lay the motion on the table."

  • Postpone to a Certain Time – Delay consideration until later.

    • "I move to postpone the motion until..."

  • Previous Question – Close debate and proceed to a vote.

    • "I move the previous question."

  • Point of Order – Correct a breach in procedure.

    • "Point of order!"

  • Adjourn – Close the meeting.

    • "I move to adjourn."

2. VOTING BASICS

  • Majority Vote – Required for most motions (more than half).

  • 2/3 Vote – Needed for limiting debate or suspending rules.

  • Chair Voting – The chair votes only to break a tie or when their vote would change the outcome.

3. HELPFUL TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE MEETINGS

  • Only one motion is considered at a time.

  • Members must be recognized by the Chair before speaking.

  • Debate must stay relevant and respectful.

  • Use formal motion language to maintain order.

  • Keep the meeting on track by following the agenda.