Which order of business typically starts a meeting?

The order of business that typically starts a meeting is the call to order. This is the formal way to begin a meeting, signaling to the attendees that the meeting is officially in session. It establishes the authority of the presiding officer and helps ensure that everyone is oriented towards the agenda ahead. The call to order typically follows any preliminary activities, such as the gathering of members and reviewing the minutes from the last meeting, and sets the tone for the proceedings.

The other choices refer to subsequent parts of the meeting agenda. Reports of special committees occur after the meeting has officially started, providing updates or findings from various committees. Unfinished business refers to items that were not resolved in previous meetings and typically appears later in the agenda for discussion once the meeting is underway. New business is addressed after routine reports and is focused on new items that need consideration. Therefore, the logical progression of a meeting begins with the call to order, making it the correct starting point.