Minutes, action logs and clear business writing

Skills you'll practise

• Write minutes that record attendance, decisions and actions with an owner and due date
• Keep an action log and follow up open actions before the next meeting
• Rewrite a message in plain language with the main point and request first
• Proofread names, dates, figures, recipients and attachments before sending
• Record discussion neutrally and keep confidential items out of general circulation

Course outline

1. 1.Minutes, action logs and clear business writingVideo · 2 min
2. 2.Minutes people can act onLesson · 15 min
3. 3.Action logs and follow-upLesson · 13 min
4. 4.Plain-language writing and checking before you sendLesson · 16 min
5. 5.Minutes, action logs and clear business writing: knowledge checkKnowledge check · 15 questions
6. 6.Minutes due by fiveScenario
7. 7.Final exam9 questions · passing it completes the course, so people who already know the material can test out

Sources it draws on

The lessons and questions are written from these references, so learners can go back to the original.

• Digital.gov (U.S. GSA): Plain language guide series
• UK ICO: Principle (c) Data minimisation (UK GDPR example; follow the data-protection law where you work)
• General office administration practice (scheduling, records, written communication, workflow coordination)