Which motion would be used to end debate and require a vote on a main motion?

• A. Reconsider
• B. Previous Question
• C. Appeal
• D. Refer

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is using a subsidiary motion to cut off discussion and force a vote on the main issue. When someone moves to call the Previous Question, they’re asking the group to end the debate on the current main motion and proceed to a vote. This tool is used to speed things up and prevent endless talking; if the motion passes (usually by a two-thirds vote), debate on the main motion ends and the assembly votes on it immediately. If the motion to close debate is defeated, discussion on the main motion continues.

Why this fits best: the other options serve different purposes and don’t automatically bring the main motion to a vote by ending debate. Reconsider is about revisiting a motion after a decision has been made, not about stopping discussion to vote right away. Appeal challenges a chair’s ruling on procedure rather than closing debate on the main motion. Refer sends the matter to a committee for further study, which delays or changes the path to a decision rather than directly ending debate to vote on the main motion.