Ideally meetings only take place when participants absolutely need to exchange information, they start and end on time, and an agenda is always prepared (and adhered to).
Notes to take in meetings include who is present, who is assigned to do what and by when, and key points. I handwrite them rather than typing.
Every page has the date and a page number on it. Use symbols in the left hand margin to indicate tasks and certain notes. I use a star or asterisk to indicate a task I have to do, “M” for meeting-specific notes, and “P” for process notes related to more global concepts.
At the end of each page I use an arrow to indicate there are more pages, or I write “END” so I don’t have to wonder later if there are missing pages. Here’s an example of my notes.
After the meeting, scan your notes into PDF format and take care of your To Do items either ASAP or add them to your master list. PDFs are also convenient for distributing to colleagues.
Then file your hardcopy notes and PDF files in chronological or topical folders (e.g. “July 2009 Meetings” or “Project X Meetings”).