protocol

A protocol is a kind of set of rules. 

In science, a protocol is another word for a set of instructions for an experiment, like a standard operating procedure (SOP).

In polite society, protocol means etiquette, like eating with a knife and fork in the correct hands, holding the door open for someone, etc.

In politics, protocol means a book of agreed guidelines, like the Kyoto Protocol.

Not a protocol:

The thing you write after a meeting is called "minutes".

For example:

"Who's taking down the minutes of this meeting? Please e-mail a copy of the minutes to everyone."

Origin of the confusion: 

In German, the minutes of a meeting are called "das Protokoll". The word "protocol" was used in the past in English to mean minutes, but the modern term is "minutes".