What is a crucial step in planning a meeting?

Setting a date and marking it on the calendar is a fundamental part of meeting planning because it establishes a clear timeframe for all participants. This step ensures that everyone involved has a specific time to prepare and commit to being present. It creates a sense of organization and structure, allowing participants to adjust their schedules accordingly and reducing the likelihood of conflicts. By securing a date, the meeting can move forward with other planning steps such as preparing an agenda, confirming attendance, and ensuring that necessary resources and materials are ready for discussion. Establishing a date also serves as a foundation for effective communication about the meeting and promotes accountability among attendees.