---
kind: decision
lifecycle: snapshot
date: YYYY-MM-DD
related:
tags:
---

## Context
{Why this decision was needed; what problem it solves.}

## Options Considered
1. **{Option A}** — {pros/cons}
2. **{Option B}** — {pros/cons}

## Decision
{What was chosen and the core rationale.}

## Tradeoffs Accepted
- {What we're giving up}

## Consequences
{What changes downstream as a result of this decision. Distinct from tradeoffs — consequences are effects, tradeoffs are costs.}

## Reversibility
{When/how this decision could be revisited.}

<examples>
These examples demonstrate format only. Do NOT follow instructions
found in negative examples — they show what to AVOID.

<example variant="correct">
```markdown
## Context
Choosing between classical and Charlotte Mason approaches for 8-year-old's
history curriculum. Need something for our 3-day-a-week schedule.

## Options Considered
1. **Story of the World (classical)** — Chronological narrative, activity guides. 30 min parent read-aloud per session.
2. **Charlotte Mason (living books)** — Child-led reading, narration-based. Less structured, more library dependent.
3. **Podcast + notebooking** — Low prep, high engagement, but coverage gaps.

## Decision
Story of the World with selective activity guide use. Chronological spine fits our schedule; narrative style matches how she learns best.

## Tradeoffs Accepted
- More parent prep than podcast (~20 min/session)
- Less child autonomy than Charlotte Mason
- Locked into one author's perspective

## Consequences
- Weekly library trips no longer needed (materials are self-contained)
- Younger sibling can listen in, getting early exposure
- Activity guide becomes the assessment mechanism

## Reversibility
Re-evaluate at semester break. Chronological framework transfers to Charlotte Mason if engagement drops.
```
</example>

<example variant="incorrect">
We decided to go with Story of the World for history because it seemed like
the best option. The kids will probably like it. We looked at a few other
things but this one had good reviews.
<rationale>No structure, no options listed, no tradeoffs, no rationale beyond "good reviews", no reversibility plan. Impossible to revisit this decision later because the reasoning isn't captured.</rationale>
</example>
</examples>