diff --git a/CONTRIBUTING.md b/CONTRIBUTING.md
index 57f3d49..69b9148 100644
--- a/CONTRIBUTING.md
+++ b/CONTRIBUTING.md
@@ -9,12 +9,14 @@ is used directly for issues and pull requests and the developers actively
 respond to requests.
 
 ## Pull Requests
-We actively welcome your pull requests.
+We actively welcome your pull requests. Before submitting a pull request,
+please make sure the following is done:
+
 1. Fork the repo and create your branch from `master`. 
-2. If you've added code that should be tested, add tests
+2. If you've added code that should be tested, add tests!
 3. If you've changed APIs, update the documentation. 
 4. Ensure the test suite passes. 
-5. Make sure your code lints. 
+5. Make sure your code [lints](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lint_(software)). 
 6. If you haven't already, complete the Contributor License Agreement ("CLA").
 
 ## Contributor License Agreement ("CLA")
@@ -41,4 +43,4 @@ outlined on that page and do not file a public issue.
 
 ## License
 By contributing to Network Connection Class, you agree that your contributions will be licensed
-under its BSD license.
\ No newline at end of file
+under its BSD license.