Effective and Clear Templates for Meeting Agenda

When it comes to holding a productive meeting, having an agenda in place is key. Not only does this ensure that everyone knows what will be discussed, but it also helps to keep the discussion on track.

However, crafting an effective and clear agenda can be difficult. Fortunately, there are templates available that can make the process easier.

This article attempts to explain some meeting agenda format templates and their best use.

Types of Meeting Agenda Format Templates

There are several types of meeting agenda format templates that can be used to help plan and run a productive meeting.

The most common type is the standard agenda. Other types of meeting agenda templates are time-based meeting agenda templates and problem/solution meeting agenda templates.

Standard Agenda Template

This type of template lists out all items that participants will discuss in order. A standard meeting agenda template works best for meetings with a specific goal or set of topics to cover.

Time-Based Agenda Template

Another common type of agenda is the time-based agenda, which orders items based on when they need to be addressed during the meeting. This type is helpful for ensuring that important items don’t get pushed back due to lack of time. 

Problem and Solution-Oriented Agenda Template

A third option is the problem/solution-oriented agenda, which helps focus discussion on specific issues or problems. It’s best used when there are multiple topics up for debate, and it’s necessary to weigh different solutions side-by-side. 

Brainstorming Session Agenda

The final option is the brainstorming session agenda, which sets aside ample time for participants to share their ideas freely without interruption from others. This type of template is useful for team meetings or board meetings where we prefer input from everyone present.

Examples of Meeting Agendas

We provide examples of some meeting agenda templates below.

Standard Meeting Agenda Template

1. Call to order

2. Roll call of attendees

3. Review and approve the previous meeting minutes

4. Old business:

a) Discuss any items from the last meeting that need final resolution.

b) Update on action items

c) Approve financials

d) Other old business

5. New business:

a) Discuss any new items

b) Address concerns or questions from members of the group

c) Set agenda for next meeting

6. Adjournment

Time-Based Agenda Template

07:00 am: Meeting begins 

07:05 am – 9:00 am: Deliberation on the new policy

9:10 am – 10:00 am : Break

10:05 am: Resumption of meeting

10:10 am – 12:00 noon: Reach conclusions on each aspect of the policy

12:30 pm: Adjournment

Final Thoughts

When you’re planning a meeting, it’s important to create an agenda that is clear and easy to follow. This article provides templates for both basic and more complex agendas, which will help ensure your meeting runs smoothly.

There are many different types of agenda templates out there. There are simple one-pagers and more detailed formats with specific sections for each item on the list. The most important thing is finding one that fits your needs and is easy for everyone involved to understand.

Assemble your team or group and test out a few different templates before settling on one (or create your own). This way, you’ll know exactly what to expect going into each meeting, and everyone will have a better chance of staying focused throughout.