diff --git a/.github/pull_request_template.md b/.github/pull_request_template.md
index c138df3..62b0ede 100644
--- a/.github/pull_request_template.md
+++ b/.github/pull_request_template.md
@@ -1,8 +1,20 @@
-## Summary
-<!-- Describe the changes introduced by this pull request. -->
+## Why now?
+<!-- Explain the problem, context, and why this change is needed. Link to the issue. -->
+Related issue: #____
 
-## Testing
-<!-- Describe how the changes were tested. -->
+## What changed?
+<!-- Brief summary; suggest where to start reviewing if many files. -->
 
-## Issues
-<!-- Link any related issues. -->
+## BREAKING
+<!-- If applicable, call it out explicitly. -->
+<!-- ⚠️ BREAKING: Describe migration or impact. -->
+
+## Review focus
+<!-- Ask for specific feedback, e.g., "Concurrency strategy OK?" or "API shape acceptable?" -->
+
+## Checklist
+- [ ] Scope ≤ 300 lines (or split/stack)
+- [ ] Title is **verb + object** (e.g., “Refactor auth middleware to async”)
+- [ ] Description links the issue and answers “why now?”
+- [ ] **BREAKING** flagged if needed
+- [ ] Tests/docs updated (if relevant)