They serve as an outline, a written record for anyone unable to attend, and to use for future reference. ... When written well, and when using a good meeting minutes template, minutes are a critical communication tool for your organization

7 things to include when writing meeting minutes
1 Date and time of the meeting. ...
2 Names of the participants. ...
3 Purpose of the meeting. ...
4 Agenda items and topics discussed. ...
5 Action items. ...
6 Next meeting date and place. ...
7 Documents to be included in the report.

Helpful Tips for Taking Board Meeting Minutes
1.Use a template.
2.Check off attendees as they arrive.
3.Do introductions or circulate an attendance list.
4.Record motions, actions, and decisions as they occur.
5.Ask for clarification as necessary.
6.Write clear, brief notes-not full sentences or verbatim wording.

Minutes are always written in the past tense and should be clear and concise. - Remember to use active or specific and not passive or vague phrases. - Examples of expressions used: members agreed, the chairman requested, the members resolved, suggested, etc.