# v1.4.0 candidate checkpoint

This record binds the untagged candidate to the exact fifteen-skill portfolio,
the compact Ultra quick path and the updated BRIEF diagnostic contract. It is
not a publication record.

```text
VERSION: 1.4.0
STATUS: RELEASE_CANDIDATE
VERIFIED_DATE: 2026-09-02
SKILL_COUNT: 15
PORTFOLIO: EXACT_FIFTEEN_CANONICAL_NOBRAINER_SKILLS
ULTRA_QUICK_PATH: PASS
WRITING_ENV_INDICATOR: PASS
WRITING_BUG_FIELDS: PASS
WRITING_COMMENT_FIELDS: PASS
WRITING_UI_EVIDENCE_LABEL: PASS
DETERMINISTIC_TESTS_STATUS: PASS
DETERMINISTIC_TESTS_TOTAL: 107
SECRET_SCAN: PASS
PUBLIC_SYNC: FETCH_ONLY
AUTOMATED_PUBLIC_COMMIT_PUSH: BLOCKED
MERGE: NOT_PERFORMED
TAG: NOT_CREATED
DISTRIBUTION: NOT_PUBLISHED
ACCEPTANCE: PASS_LOCAL_PR_CANDIDATE
```

## What changed

- `nobrainer-ultra` now names a quick path for one coherent, reversible small
  change. It still requires local inspection, a nearest check, diff/status
  readback and escalation when scope, risk, proof or an owner gate expands.
- `nobrainer-writing` uses one environment block for bugs and comments with the
  environment name, exact URL and user used. Bug reports require an explicit
  `Description`, omit the separate `Impact` field and call UI screenshot or MP4
  proof `Evidence`.
- API request/response and database query/result proof remain separate and
  copyable. The public bug template and regression tests follow the contract.

The candidate keeps the existing fifteen-skill inventory and the previous
`v1.3.1` release remains the rollback source until a fresh publication readback
is complete.