Customer Reviews

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Robert's Rules

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(2)
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I recently became the president of a board, and I must have read every book on Robert's Rules in print and on the Internet. I still didn't completely understand it. This book is the only one I've found that breaks down IN PLAIN ENGLISH exactly what each motion covers and does not cover, what order they must follow, and how to introduce them and get rid of them (kill, postpone, or pass). This book also goes over how to write an agenda, minutes, and committee reports. It goes over the duties of each member of the board. This book has become my Bible when presiding over my board.

The best part about this book is that it is organized and written clearly. The problem with most books on Robert's Rules is they follow the original text -- which is written in formal, "contract" language -- too closely. It's as if the authors are afraid to really explain the rules in plain English. I must be a Complete Idiot, because this book has been invaluable to me.

I am a high school student who is currently chair of our Junior Class Mock Congress. I cannot even begin to explain how helpful this book has been as our Presiding Corps prepares to manage to group of 300+ students for a day-long meeting. Not only does it easily explain everything from Robert's Rules, the author is a professional parliamentarian who adds great tips on how to keep your meeting running smoothly. This book is a MUST for anyone interested in planning a forum or meeting, or managing the affairs of any group.

While this book won't replace Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised as the adopted parliamentary authority for many organizations, it is a helpful guide for the presiding officers and members of these organizations. It covers the basics in easily understood language. There will still be the need to consult Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised now and than but by using this book as a companion source the rules and procedures will be easier to understand.

I consider myself a novice parliamentarian. In a leadership role I have conducted many meetings. I have also been called upon to be a parliamentarian at church and other meetings. Finally, someone has written a book on Robert's Rules that is loaded with understandable and easy to read information. I believe this book will bring about a revelation of new leaders who will better understand Robert's Rules, resulting in more effective meetings. I would urge all leaders, who conduct meetings, to invest in this writing.

I recently became President of a small non-profit group and had no idea of what Robert's Rules were. They seemed so confusing and complicated/convoluted on the surface. This book has been a great help in getting me up to speed on how to conduct a meeting and use the Rules. They are explained clearly as are the reasons why you follow certain procedures which is helpful. Excellent resource!

If I won the Lotto, I would purchase copies of this book for every member of a community board that I have seen struggle to vote and make motions according to Robert's Rules. This book makes it simple with tips, examples of common errors and straightforward writing that makes it simple for any professional to understand. There are even scripts that can be applied to any situation. This is a must-buy for anyone who wants to be more effective in meetings.

I was recently elected chairman of my local chamber of commerce and advised to pick up a copy of Robert's Rules of Order. Confusing!!! There's so much to learn and it was soo confusing. I'm thrilled though that finally I've found something to simplify this complicated process. Nancy Sylvester spells the process out in easy terms and in ways that you can remember and follow. She also gives great tips and advice. While the original book is a must, this book is essential to fully understanding these complicated rules.

Nancy Sylvester does an excellant job of simplifying & clarifying what can seem very complicated and confusing. This book would be helpful to anyone who needs to get a handle on how to lead parliamentary type meetings. It is also quite helpful for those who simply participate in such meetings. This book is recommended to anyone who uses Robert's Rules.

Just what the doctor ordered...!!! A complex and confusing subject TAMED to the needs of the layman. Great job and my thanks to the authors

I'm just getting into Robert's Rules to help w/ our union meetings & this was a great book to cut through it all. The book was easy to read - providing a run down of the rules & the rational behind them. This book coupled w/ some of the quick cheat sheet-type products out there should go a long way to getting the process down.