What is the term for a motion to end debate and proceed to a vote?

• A. The "previous question" motion.
• B. The "adjourn" motion.
• C. The "limit debate" motion.
• D. The "motion to table" motion.

Answer: (A)

Ending debate and moving straight to a vote is accomplished by the previous question motion. When this motion is adopted, discussion on the current motion ends and the assembly proceeds to an immediate vote on that motion. It must be seconded, and its passage relies on a majority to carry; if it doesn’t pass, debate continues. This differs from other options: adjourn stops the meeting entirely, limit debate only restricts how long or how many may speak without forcing a vote now, and the motion to table postpones consideration rather than ending the debate on the motion.