Minutes should be prepared in third-party language that is impartial and simple. Minutes should be produced in a consistent format, writing style, and tone from meeting to meeting, ideally by the same person each time. In addition to being impartial, third-party languages should not suggest any opinions on the part of the minute-writer or the body about which they are writing. Languages used include English, French, German, Spanish, Indonesian, Swedish, and Norwegian. Minutes play an important role in decision-making processes. They provide a record of what was said by whom and at what stage each proposal was made/voted on. They also contain guidance for future decisions, so it is essential that they are written clearly and accurately. Minute-writers should feel free to use their own language, but if there is no official language at meetings then it should be understood that English will be used for minutes. There are many different ways to write minutes. Some bodies may prefer one method over another, but all methods have their advantages and disadvantages. The main thing is that minutes give a true and accurate account of meetings. They do not alter the actual course of events or remove anyone from consideration at a later date. This can only be done with the approval of those present at the meeting.