Three taps of the gavel indicate that what action should occur?

• A. Members should stand
• B. The presiding officer relinquishes the chair
• C. Three taps indicate that members should stand
• D. The meeting is adjourned

Answer: (C)

In parliamentary procedure, the gavel is a quick, nonverbal cue used by the presiding officer to direct the body without interrupting with words. The number of taps signals a specific action. Three taps cue members to stand, a ceremonial signal used at moments that call for everyone to rise, such as for a pledge or formal recognition. The other actions—adjourning or relinquishing the chair—are not indicated by this three-tap cue; adjourning is tied to a motion and its vote, and relinquishing the chair involves transferring control rather than a standing cue. So, when you hear three taps, the correct action is for members to stand.