To take or not to take notes?

Will I reread them later? Should I focus on listening harder instead?

Like most things, the right answer is probably 'it depends'

One thing I believe is that writing things down isn't just about the future reference value but also about understanding and remembering.

In this sense, taking notes will always carry some value (unless it is a verbatim no thinking type of note)

In terms of the reference value, I tend to split it in 2 types
🔹 Notes for myself
🔹 Notes to be shared

The 1st type is very easy to write and the minimum requirement is that I can understand them when I read them later.

I try to use good keywords or timestamps to make them easy to find but with tools like 'NotebookLM' this might not even be necessary in the future.

The 2nd type requires more effort but is immensely valuable because it acts as a reference and an alignment point.

It is so easy to leave a meeting thinking everything is clear and everyone knows what they need to do but then realize later on that there was a misunderstanding or some important points were left out.

I find this type of note to be a key 'interim' deliverable (especially for Business Analysts) since it provides understanding, synthesis and a clear vision of the road ahead.

Ideally the notes can be shared with participants before the end of the meeting so that everyone can opine and agree on it or request adjustments.

I find this is usually the best possible use of the last 3-5 minutes of meeting.

What do you guys think?
Would love to hear everyone's take or tip & tricks on note taking!