Quick answer
Meeting Notes is the record of what was said; Action Items is the recorded tasks from a meeting — the difference, and when each applies, below.
The 30-second answer
Meeting Notes: The record of what was said. Action Items: The recorded tasks from a meeting. Decision Log: The running record of decisions made. The difference matters when you’re picking the right tool for the situation.
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Side by side
| Term | What it is | When to use |
|---|---|---|
| Meeting Notes | the record of what was said | documentation |
| Action Items | the recorded tasks from a meeting | follow-through |
| Decision Log | the running record of decisions made | decision memory |
Meeting Notes in depth
The record of what was said — use it documentation.
Action Items in depth
The recorded tasks from a meeting — use it follow-through.
Decision Log in depth
The running record of decisions made — use it decision memory.
Which one when
- Use Meeting Notes when documentation.
- Use Action Items when follow-through.
- Use Decision Log when decision memory.
In practice they coexist — the skill is knowing which fits the moment.
Bottom line
Meeting Notes is the record of what was said; Action Items is the recorded tasks from a meeting — the difference, and when each applies, below.
FAQ
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