Agenda Structure Basics for Professionals
8th Grade Technology Ms. Kenya Akins John R. Griffin Middle School January 20, 2026
Fast Scan Challenge - Warm Up
Look at the agenda on screen Find the meeting time in 3 seconds Find the location in 3 seconds Find the main goal in 3 seconds Timer starts... NOW!
What Makes an Agenda Professional?
Clear information hierarchy Essential details easy to find Action items vs discussion topics Proper formatting and structure Serves as a roadmap for meetings
The 3-Second Rule
Any reader should be able to locate the meeting's essential details (time, location, goal) within three seconds
Action Items vs Discussion Topics
{"left":"Tasks that need to be completed\nHave clear deadlines and owners\nResult in specific outcomes\nExample: 'Review budget by Friday'","right":"Topics for conversation and input\nGenerate ideas and feedback\nMay lead to action items later\nExample: 'Discuss new project ideas'"}
Microsoft Word Styles for Agendas
Heading 1: Main agenda sections Heading 2: Sub-items and details Creates automatic navigation Ensures consistent formatting Makes documents professional
Guided Practice: Fix the Bad Agenda
Work in pairs with your laptops Edit the sample 'bad agenda' Apply Heading 1 and Heading 2 styles Identify action items vs discussion topics Use different colors to mark each type Check your work with Navigation Pane
Quick Check: Can You Apply the 3-Second Rule?
Look at your edited agenda Can someone find the meeting time in 3 seconds? What about the location? How about the main goal? What made it easier to find?
Independent Application: Create Your Mini Agenda
Scenario: Student group meeting tomorrow Include: time, location, purpose Add 3 topics with at least 1 action item Use Word Heading Styles Apply the 3-Second Rule Make it professional and clear
Success Criteria & Next Steps
You can identify key agenda components quickly You can explain the 3-Second Rule You can use Word Styles for organization You understand action items vs discussions Tomorrow: Advanced agenda features Extension: Research real professional agendas