Robert's Rules of Order

Henry M. Robert

Roberts Rules of Order by Henry M. Robert is the definitive manual of parliamentary procedure, designed to bring order, efficiency, and fairness to meetings and deliberative assemblies of all sizes and types. Originally published in 1876, this foundational work remains one of the most widely used and respected guides to conducting formal meetings with structure and democratic integrity. The book opens with a thorough Introduction and explanation of Parliamentary Law, establishing the legal and procedural foundations that govern organized assemblies. Robert provides a Plan of the Work and Definitions of essential parliamentary terms, ensuring accessibility even for readers new to procedural governance. Divided into two main parts, the first—Rules of Order—offers detailed instructions on how business should be introduced, classified, and debated. It covers the hierarchy and mechanics of Privileged, Subsidiary, Incidental, and Miscellaneous Motions, along with vital procedures related to Committees, Debate and Decorum, Voting, Officer Duties, and Meeting Minutes. The second part—Organization and Conduct of Business—focuses on practical implementation: how to organize assemblies, elect and manage officers, introduce and manage motions, handle debate, and resolve complex parliamentary issues. Robert further includes a section on the Legal Rights of Assemblies and the Trial of their Members, recognizing the balance between democratic authority and individual protection. Supporting resources such as Tables of Rules, Order of Precedence of Motions, voting thresholds (e.g., Two-thirds Vote), and Forms of Putting Questions and Amendments serve as quick-reference tools for real-time application. Whether you are leading a nonprofit board, student government, business committee, religious assembly, or public council, Robert's Rules of Order equips you with the procedural knowledge to ensure that meetings are fair, inclusive, and productive.

Table of contents

• PREFACE.
• Part 1. Rules of Order.
• PART 2. ORGANIZATION AND CONDUCT OF BUSINESS.*
• TABLE OF RULES RELATING TO MOTIONS.
• MISCELLANEOUS RULES.