diff --git a/pull-requests.md b/pull-requests.md
index 88440b4..b15efa5 100644
--- a/pull-requests.md
+++ b/pull-requests.md
@@ -28,14 +28,16 @@ Use a structured format:
 
 ```markdown
 ## Summary
-Brief explanation of what this PR does and why.
+What changed and why — 1-3 sentences. Explain the motivation, not just the diff.
 
-## Changes
-- Bullet list of specific changes
+## Validation
+How you verified it works — steps taken, commands run, screenshots if UI.
 
-## Test Plan
-- How you verified this works
-- What to check during review
+## Tests
+What tests were added, updated, or run. If no automated tests, explain manual testing.
+
+## Notes
+Anything reviewers should know — migration steps, deploy order, follow-ups, breaking changes. Omit this section if empty.
 ```
 
 The summary should explain **why** the change is needed, not just restate the diff. Reviewers can read the code; they need context.