Rules of order cheat sheet

What to say when you move, amend, or raise a point during a union meeting

Use on your phone during a general membership meeting when you need the exact wording for a parliamentary action.

Read the Running a Meeting guide

Mini mode on the floor

Search or filter, tap an action, then copy the phrase. Chair notes stay on the card so you know what happens next.

What do you want to do?

Tap an action below. Each card shows what to say, when to use it, and what the Chair does next.

Motions

Points

Meeting

Introduce a main motion

What to say: "I move that we [state action]…"
When to use it: Use this when you want the local to take a new action, such as a donation, an endorsement, a policy, or an expenditure.
Can you interrupt?: No
Needs a seconder?: Yes
Is it debatable?: Yes
Vote required: Majority
Chair's next step: Restate the motion, open debate, and recognize the mover first.

About this tool

This cheat sheet gives the exact words for fourteen parliamentary actions in a union meeting, such as moving a motion, amending it, or closing debate. Each card says when to use the action and what the Chair does next.

Common questions

How do I make a motion?: Say “I move that we…” and state the action. The Chair restates the motion and opens debate, starting with the mover.
How do I end debate and get to a vote?: Say “I move the previous question” or “I call the question.” If the meeting adopts it, the pending motion goes to a vote without further debate.
Do these rules apply to my local?: Your local's bylaws come first. Check them for details such as when a vote can be reconsidered.

What do you want to do?

Tap an action below. Each card shows what to say, when to use it, and what the Chair does next.

Motions

Points

Meeting

About this tool

Common questions

How do I make a motion?

Say “I move that we…” and state the action. The Chair restates the motion and opens debate, starting with the mover.

How do I end debate and get to a vote?

Say “I move the previous question” or “I call the question.” If the meeting adopts it, the pending motion goes to a vote without further debate.

Do these rules apply to my local?

Your local's bylaws come first. Check them for details such as when a vote can be reconsidered.