Understanding the role of a registered parliamentarian requires more than a casual interest in meetings or organizational governance. It demands a deep comprehension of parliamentary procedure, especially Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (RONR), which serves as the standard reference. Anyone preparing to become a Registered Parliamentarian (RP) must dedicate significant time and effort to studying. A comprehensive study guide is crucial for organizing topics, understanding exam expectations, and identifying effective resources to succeed in the RP credentialing process.
What Is a Registered Parliamentarian?
A Registered Parliamentarian is an individual credentialed by the National Association of Parliamentarians (NAP) who has demonstrated proficiency in parliamentary law and procedure. They assist organizations by interpreting rules, advising on procedures, and ensuring smooth and fair meetings. The RP designation is earned after passing a rigorous written exam covering multiple aspects of parliamentary law.
Why Study Parliamentary Procedure?
Parliamentary procedure helps organizations run meetings effectively, making decisions that reflect the collective will. For those serving as parliamentarians, understanding the logic behind motions, voting, debate, and meeting rules is essential. Studying for the RP exam ensures that candidates are equipped with both the knowledge and the reasoning skills necessary to advise groups properly.
Essential Resources for RP Preparation
Before diving into the study structure, it’s helpful to gather the right materials. The following resources form the foundation of any successful Registered Parliamentarian study plan
- Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (12th Edition)The main textbook tested on the RP exam.
- Robert’s Rules of Order In BriefA simplified version, helpful for conceptual reviews.
- NAP’s Online RP Study GuideStructured content designed by NAP to help candidates prepare.
- Flashcards and practice testsFor memorizing terminology and testing application.
- Study groups and mentoring programsConnecting with experienced parliamentarians helps reinforce understanding.
Structure of the RP Examination
The RP exam is divided into several modules. Candidates must pass all required sections to earn the designation. The modules cover topics such as
- Rules related to main motions
- Subsidiary, privileged, and incidental motions
- Amendments and precedence of motions
- Voting procedures
- Debate rules and decorum
- Quorum and meeting structure
Each module typically consists of multiple-choice or scenario-based questions that test both memory and applied understanding of RONR principles.
Organizing Your Study Plan
Preparing for the RP exam can feel overwhelming without a well-structured plan. Here’s a guide to structuring your studies effectively
Step 1 Review the Exam Content Outline
Start by reviewing the NAP’s exam blueprint. This will give you clarity on what topics to expect and help you divide your study time appropriately. Focus more on high-weight topics like motions and their classifications.
Step 2 Read the Core Text Thoroughly
Begin with Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, reading each chapter while highlighting key definitions and concepts. Take notes on sections involving precedence, handling of motions, and meeting conduct.
Step 3 Create Flashcards
Use flashcards to reinforce definitions and motion types. Include information such as whether a motion is debatable, amendable, requires a second, or what kind of vote is needed. Flashcards are a proven method for enhancing recall.
Step 4 Apply Learning through Practice
Practice questions and mock exams are essential. They help identify weak spots and simulate the pressure of the actual test. Try solving past questions and review answers carefully to understand mistakes.
Step 5 Join a Study Group
Study groups offer support, motivation, and new perspectives. Discussing difficult topics with others often leads to better comprehension. Many NAP units offer mentoring or local workshops.
Step 6 Review Regularly
Don’t just cram. Spread your study over weeks or months. Review previous topics frequently to retain information long-term. Repetition is crucial for mastery.
Key Topics to Master
To do well on the Registered Parliamentarian exam, you must be confident with these crucial areas
Main Motions
Main motions form the foundation of deliberative assemblies. Understand when they are used, how they are introduced, debated, and voted on. Learn how they interact with secondary motions.
Subsidiary Motions
These motions alter, delay, or dispose of a main motion. Study motions like Lay on the Table, Previous Question, Postpone, Amend, and how they affect pending business.
Privileged Motions
Privileged motions relate to the rights and comfort of the assembly. Learn their order of precedence and how they interrupt business.
Incidental Motions
These motions arise from other motions or business. Understanding their function helps with real-time problem solving during meetings.
Amendments
Study how to phrase, propose, and adopt amendments correctly. Be clear on the rules for primary and secondary amendments and which motions are amendable.
Voting and Quorum
Familiarity with types of votes voice, rising, ballot, roll call is essential. Also, understand quorum requirements and their effect on proceedings.
Debate Rules and Decorum
Know the number of times a member may speak, time limits, addressing the chair, and disciplinary procedures if rules are broken.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Studying for the RP exam isn’t just about memorization. Here are some mistakes candidates often make
- Focusing too much on rote memorization without understanding context
- Skipping modules or underestimating their difficulty
- Relying solely on summary materials instead of reading RONR in full
- Ignoring time management and starting to study too late
- Not practicing with real-world scenarios or sample case questions
Tips for Exam Day
- Get a good night’s sleep before the test
- Review summaries and flashcards on the morning of the exam
- Manage your time carefully; don’t spend too long on any one question
- Read each question thoroughly, especially scenario-based ones
- Trust your preparation and stay calm
After the Exam What’s Next?
Once you pass the Registered Parliamentarian exam, you become eligible to offer professional parliamentary services. Many go on to serve local clubs, professional organizations, school boards, and even government bodies. Some RPs continue their studies to become Professional Registered Parliamentarians (PRPs), the highest credential offered by NAP.
The journey to becoming a Registered Parliamentarian is intellectually demanding but deeply rewarding. It sharpens critical thinking, improves meeting leadership skills, and enhances your value as an advisor. By using a thorough and structured study guide, staying consistent in preparation, and applying principles through practice, candidates can position themselves for success. Whether for personal enrichment or a professional career path, mastering parliamentary procedure opens the door to confident leadership and order in group decision-making.