Sometimes agendas will build in break times and add some extra time at key places near the end to make up for overuns. While having a plan or outline in place in the form of an agenda gives a leader a very potent tool for chairing the meeting, Roberts Rules of Order is a standard text that explains how to direct the flow of the meeting. It gives examples of motions, amendments, debate, proper order of address, voting and other standard organizational advice. It helps keep things from descending into chaos. It allows everyone the chance to be heard, protects the rights of the minority in any voting debate, and also provides for more efficient meetings.
Minutes are another key part of any organization, as they are the official record of that group.
Usually copies of the minutes are provided in writing, which is the record of the previous meetings important votes and usually matches the agenda items. The members vote on the minutes presented making it the official record for legal purposes. This can be important for votes. In some organizations the secretary or an officer might read the minutes aloud in order to bring everyone up to date as well as present them for vote. Members may disagree about the numbers in key votes, or how the record is written, and ask for amendments or changes.