Which statement best describes a directive in meeting proceedings?

• A. A directive is a formal instruction to act, often from leadership.
• B. A directive is a formal proposal awaiting a second.
• C. A directive is an optional suggestion.
• D. A directive is a formal vote count.

Answer: (A)

In meeting proceedings, a directive is a formal instruction to act, usually issued by leadership, that directs someone to carry out a specific task or action. This makes it an order with some obligation attached, often including who should do it and sometimes a timeline. It’s different from a formal proposal, which is something offered for consideration and possible acceptance, not an instruction to proceed. It’s also not an optional suggestion, which lacks authority, and not a formal vote count, which is simply tallying support rather than issuing a command. So the statement that a directive is a formal instruction to act, often from leadership, best captures its role in guiding action.