diff --git a/docs/onboarding.md b/docs/onboarding.md
--- a/docs/onboarding.md
+++ b/docs/onboarding.md
@@ -1,3 +1,5 @@
 # Onboarding
-Read the README first.
+Read the README first, then inspect the active plan.
+If no active plan exists, check the backlog.
+Before reviewing the PR, open the evidence note and match it to the plan acceptance criteria.
 Run the tests before opening a PR.