What is the purpose of meeting minutes?

Meeting minutes serve a critical function in documenting the key elements of a meeting. They are intended to capture what was discussed, outline decisions made, and identify actions that need to be taken following the meeting. This documentation is essential as it helps attendees recall discussions, ensures accountability for assigned tasks, and serves as a record for those who were not present. By providing a clear account of these components, meeting minutes become a valuable tool for organizational memory and follow-up.

In contrast, the other choices address specific details that do not represent the primary purpose of meeting minutes. Financial reports, travel itineraries, and future agendas are important in their contexts, but they do not fulfill the role of minutes in summarizing discussions and decisions made during a meeting.