What distinguishes a memo from an agenda?

A memo is typically a brief note used for communication within an organization, often addressing important information or decisions. It is designed to convey messages efficiently and is usually concise, focusing on specific points or updates. On the other hand, an agenda is structured to list the topics for discussion during a meeting, presenting them in a specific order to help guide the conversation.

The distinction lies in their functions: while the memo serves as a communication tool that may include updates or decisions made, the agenda specifically prepares attendees for future discussions by outlining what will be covered. This clarity helps ensure that meetings remain organized and focused.

In contrast, other options may confuse the specific roles of memos and agendas. While details on past decisions may be communicated in memos, they are not exclusively about past information; memos can also address current issues or future actions. Additionally, while a memo might contain detailed information, agendas typically serve a functional role, primarily centering on the structure of meetings rather than on conveying in-depth content. Thus, the key differentiation comes from their overall purpose: a memo communicates, while an agenda organizes.