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Understanding Basic Motions <br /> The basic element in parliamentary procedure is the MOTION. Robert's Rules lists and <br /> explains eighty-four motions. Instead of trying to learn all those motions it would be <br /> better to concentrate on thirteen frequently used motions. For some motions a second <br /> "modern" name appears in brackets in the listing below.You will find nine of these <br /> motions, listed in order of precedence, on this page and the other four motions,with no <br /> exact order of precedence, on the next page. <br /> Main Motion <br /> The motion used to bring items and ideas before the group for a decision. "I move that <br /> this organization assess each member one dollar at this meeting to be given to the City <br /> Clerk to pay for her dinner." <br /> Amend <br /> The motion used to produce wording changes in motions that have already been made <br /> and are on the floor. "I move to amend the main motion by striking the word "City <br /> Clerk" and inserting"a person from this group selected by a drawing." <br /> Commit [Refer to Committee] <br /> A motion used to send a motion to committee for study and a recommendation. "I <br /> move that the motion concerning collecting money from each member to pay for dinner <br /> be referred to the Finance Committee." <br /> Postpone to a Certain Time [Postpone Definitely] <br /> A motion used to delay action on a proposed motion until the next meeting. "I move to <br /> postpone action on the pending motion until our next meeting." <br /> Limit Debate <br /> The motion to place an exact limit on the amount of debate prior to taking a vote. "I <br /> move to limit the debate to three speeches for the motion and three speeches against the <br /> motion." <br /> Previous Question [Close Debate or Vote Immediately] <br /> The motion which closes all debate on the immediate pending question and brings the <br /> question to a vote. "I move to close debate." <br /> Lay on the Table [Postpone Temporarily] <br /> The motion to temporarily postpone a pending motion so that an emergency matter can <br /> be brought before the group. "I move to table the main motion concerning an <br /> assessment payment." Chair then asks, "What emergency is involved?" <br /> Recess <br /> The motion used to take a short break. "I move that we recess until 3:40 p.m." <br /> Adjourn <br /> The motion used to immediately terminate the meeting. "I move to adjourn." <br /> N:\Public Bodies\Handbooks\Understanding Basic Motions.doc <br />