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Contributing to CPSC Computing

Thank you for your interest in contributing to the CPSC organization.

All repositories in this organization are spec-first and governance-driven.

1. Scope of Contributions

We accept contributions in the following areas:

  • Clarifications to existing specifications
  • Corrections of errors or inconsistencies
  • Improvements to wording, structure, or readability
  • Non-normative examples and documentation
  • Issue reports and design discussions

We do not accept:

  • Speculative features without discussion
  • Implementations that redefine semantics
  • Changes that bypass the specification process

2. Normative vs Non-Normative Content

Normative Content (Authoritative)

Specifications that define CPSC semantics, formats, and behavior. Changes to normative content are high-impact and require a formal proposal.

Non-Normative Content (Informational)

Overviews, explainers, glossaries, and legal materials. Non-normative contributions are welcome but MUST reference the specification and MUST NOT redefine semantics.

3. Spec-First Rule

All changes MUST follow this order:

  1. Identify or propose a specification change
  2. Discuss and document intent
  3. Update the specification (if required)
  4. Update examples or documentation
  5. Implement tooling or demos (if applicable)

If the specification is ambiguous — stop, open a proposal issue, clarify the spec, then proceed.

4. Using GitHub Issues

All design discussions and proposals MUST occur via GitHub Issues.

  • Use the Spec Change Proposal template for normative changes
  • Clearly state whether the change is normative or non-normative
  • Reference specific sections and files

Pull Requests without an associated issue may be closed.

5. Agent-Assisted Contributions

Agent-assisted contributions are allowed, but:

  • Agents MUST follow repository-specific agent guidelines
  • Agents MUST NOT introduce new semantics
  • Human review is always required
  • The specification remains authoritative

6. Licensing and IP

By contributing:

  • You agree that contributions are provided under the existing repository license
  • You do not receive commercial rights
  • You acknowledge that patent rights are reserved

Do not submit content you do not have the right to contribute.

7. Review and Acceptance

All contributions are reviewed for:

  • Correctness
  • Clarity
  • Alignment with CPSC principles
  • Impact on determinism and portability

Maintainers may request revisions or reject contributions.

8. Summary

CPSC prioritizes:

  • Correctness over speed
  • Clarity over cleverness
  • Specification authority over convenience

Thank you for contributing responsibly.

CONTRIBUTING.md | © 2026 BitConcepts, LLC | Licensed under CPSC Research & Evaluation License v1.0