What do the meeting abbreviations or meeting types mean?

← Back to FAQs

Practical Info

Meeting listings often use short codes or labels to describe the meeting format. Common examples include Open, Closed, Discussion, Big Book, Speaker, Step Study, Online, or Hybrid.

AA meeting listings often include a meeting type or short code to help you know what to expect. Common meeting types may include Open, Closed, Discussion, Big Book, Speaker, Step Study, Online, Hybrid, Men's, Women's, LGBTQ+, Spanish-language, or other formats depending on the local meeting list. You do not need to memorize these terms before attending. If you are new, the most important thing is simply finding a meeting you can get to. If a listing is unclear, call San Fernando Valley Area of Alcoholics Anonymous at 818-988-3001, and someone can help you choose a meeting. Browse meetings at /meetings/.