What to say to approve a motion?

Asked by: Prof. Chance Connelly IV  |  Last update: March 24, 2026
Score: 4.4/5 (17 votes)

To approve a motion, a member says, "I move that [the motion] be adopted" (or "approved"), it's seconded, discussed, and then the chair calls for a vote, asking for "Ayes" (yes) or "Noes" (no), declaring it "carried," "adopted," or "passed" if approved, often with phrases like, "'The ayes have it, the motion is carried,'" according to Robert's Rules.

How do you say motion to approve?

One member makes the motion — "I move to approve the minutes from the [insert date] meeting as presented." — a second member approves it, and the chair calls for a vote. The approval of meeting minutes goes through with a majority vote.

What to say after a motion to approve?

➢ Say, “The motion has been made and seconded.” ➢ “All in favor of the motion, say 'Aye. '” (Count or make note of votes.)

How do you approve a motion?

Handling the motion for approval

The most efficient way of approving minutes is for the chair to assume the motion and obtain unanimous consent that the minutes be approved as distributed (or as corrected). The presiding officer says, “The minutes have been read (or distributed) to you.

What to say to approve minutes?

Motion to Approve the Minutes:

Once corrections are made, the chair asks for a motion to approve the minutes. A member makes the motion by saying, “I move to approve the minutes as corrected.” Another member must second this motion. This formalizes the approval process and ensures everyone agrees on the corrections​.

The Basics of Making Motions

35 related questions found

What is a good sentence for motion?

She has a simple golf swing with no wasted motion. He made hand motions to get our attention. Her motion was voted on. The wax should be applied using a circular motion.

What two words must you use when making a motion?

A main motion must be moved, seconded and stated by the chair before it can be discussed: “I move that…”. If you want to move, second or speak to a motion, stand and address the chair: “I second the motion”. If you approve the motion as is, vote for it: “Aye”. If you disapprove of the motion, vote against it: “No/nae”.

What is the proper way to start a motion?

Next, here's how to propose a motion.

During a meeting, a motion is made via three simple words: “I move that.” Any member with a proposal for the group to consider – whether substantive or procedural – should simply seek recognition by the chairperson and when recognized, say, “I move that . . . .”

How to write a motion for board approval?

Helpful tips for writing a board meeting motion:

  1. Be specific, unique and concise.
  2. Understand the different motion types.
  3. Address potential objections.
  4. Rely on your board chair and board members for assistance.

How to message for approval?

How to Write an Email or Letter to Request Approval

  1. Start with a Clear Subject Line (For Emails) ...
  2. Open with a Polite Greeting. ...
  3. State Your Purpose Clearly and Early. ...
  4. Provide Necessary Context and Details. ...
  5. Clearly Outline What You Need Approved. ...
  6. Specify a Deadline for Response. ...
  7. Offer to Answer Questions or Provide Clarification.

How to write a response to a motion?

Be sure to tell the Judge all of the important and relevant facts and to make any argument that helps to support your position. You should tell the Judge what law or laws your Response is based on.

How to write a decision in meeting minutes?

The form adopted for writing a summary of decisions is short and focused, and can be written in table or text form. It contains a summary of the measures agreed during the intervention and does not include the discussions with the participants. Some steps can be followed.

How to write a proper motion?

How to Write a Motion for Court? Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Understand the Purpose of Your Motion. ...
  2. Step 2: Research Court Rules and Requirements. ...
  3. Step 3: Start with a Clear and Concise Title. ...
  4. Step 4: Draft the Introduction. ...
  5. Step 5: Present the Relevant Facts. ...
  6. Step 6: Provide Legal Arguments.

How do I approve an agenda in a meeting?

Under Robert's Rules, the agenda is initially written up by the secretary and approved by the presiding officer or chairperson. However, the adoption of the agenda for each meeting should be voted on by the majority of the assembly at the beginning of the meeting, and only at this point is it binding.

How do you make a motion to approve minutes?

How to make a motion to approve minutes

  1. Chair's introduction. The chair presents the draft minutes to the group, asking if there are any corrections or additions.
  2. Call for a motion. Once any edits are addressed, the chair asks for a motion to approve the minutes.
  3. Make the motion. ...
  4. Second the motion. ...
  5. Vote.

How to make a motion to approve a budget?

Present a motion during the meeting

Recognition: When the agenda item is reached, wait for the chairperson to recognize you. State the Motion: Clearly state your motion. For example, “I move that we approve the annual budget as presented. Second the Motion: Ensure another board member seconds the motion.

What do you say when a motion is passed?

The chair puts the motion to a vote

2. The chair says: The question is on the adoption of the motion that ... As many as are in favor, say 'Aye'.

What can you say about motion?

In general, the term motion signifies a continuous change in the position or configuration of a physical system in space. For example, one can talk about the motion of a wave or the motion of a quantum particle, where the configuration consists of the probabilities of the wave or particle occupying specific positions.

What is a good sentence for movement?

There was movement behind the window in the back door. A man was directing the movements of a large removal van. Her hand movements are becoming more animated. There are reports of fresh troop movements across the border.