Here, you'll discover everything you need to know about board meeting minutes and how to take them with examples and a meeting minutes template. Board meeting minutes are crucial official records.Learn how to succeed at writing them effectively with our guide and free templates! Gov​ no later than three weeks (3 weeks) prior to the meeting date. Minutes should be retained in a manual and shared with all board members. Sample of Board Meeting Minutes. First Board of Directors meeting minutes template. Free corporate form for recording the minutes of the first directors meeting. The three basic elements of creating effective meeting minutes are formatting, attendance, and body content. By signing the minutes, the Secretary indicates the board has approved the meeting minutes.