A good Troop meeting can serve three main purposes:

1. The Troop meeting can help each Patrol to become a stronger team by keeping it on its toes preparing for the meeting.  If, for instance, a Patrol project in first aid or lashing or fire-by-friction is scheduled for the Troop meeting, the Patrols will have to do something about it before the meeting comes around.  If a knotting game is on the program, a Patrol will have a better chance of making a good showing if the boys have practiced before the meeting.

2. The Troop meeting can give each Scout a chance to learn something new that will make the outdoor experience that follows more enjoyable.  A demonstration or dramatization of some outdoor skill can give the boy pointers he can use as soon as he gets outdoors.