diff --git a/CONTRIBUTING.md b/CONTRIBUTING.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..849c253
--- /dev/null
+++ b/CONTRIBUTING.md
@@ -0,0 +1,7 @@
+When submitting changes via a pull request, or any other means, please format commit messages using ["50/72" guidelines, as suggested by Tim Pope](https://tbaggery.com/2008/04/19/a-note-about-git-commit-messages.html).
+
+Summary:
+- Maximum 50 character first "title" line, written as a capitalized [imperative sentence](http://examples.yourdictionary.com/imperative-sentence-examples.html).
+- If necessary, more detailed explanatory paragraphs following a blank line, with lines wrapped at maximum 72 characters.
+- If used, bullet points have a "hanging indent".
+