What is the function of an agenda in meetings?

The function of an agenda in meetings is to structure the meeting and keep participants focused. An agenda serves as a roadmap for the discussion, outlining the topics to be covered and the order in which they will be addressed. This helps attendees understand the objectives of the meeting and prioritize their attention on relevant issues. By clearly defining what will be discussed, the agenda encourages engagement and accountability among participants, ensuring that the meeting remains productive and on track.

In contrast, options that suggest purposes such as confusing participants or summarizing past meetings do not contribute to the effective management of a meeting. Moreover, while an agenda can assist in facilitating documentation of key points, it does not inherently eliminate the need for notes, as attendees may still want to jot down important information during the discussion.