diff --git a/CONTRIBUTING.md b/CONTRIBUTING.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0c415ac
--- /dev/null
+++ b/CONTRIBUTING.md
@@ -0,0 +1,21 @@
+## How to contribute to Donut
+
+#### **Did you find a bug?**
+
+* **Ensure the bug was not already reported** by searching on GitHub under [Issues](https://github.com/plowteam/donut/issues).
+
+* If you're unable to find an open issue addressing the problem, [open a new one](https://github.com/plowteam/donut/issues/new). Be sure to include a **title and clear description**, as much relevant information as possible, including your expected outcome vs your observed outcome.
+
+* **Keep issues focused and easy to understand** by limiting discussion to the technical
+problem only. An issue shouldn't take more than a few minutes for a person to read and
+understand.
+
+* Be aware that issues are limited to the scope of the original reported bug. If a new bug is found while
+investigating an existing issue, a new issue should be opened.
+
+#### **Did you write a patch that fixes a bug?**
+
+* Open a new GitHub pull request with the patch.
+
+* Ensure the PR description clearly describes the problem and solution. Include the relevant issue number if applicable.
+
diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index b5a2374..b14edb9 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -70,6 +70,8 @@ Contributions are always welcome, whether it's modifying source code to add new
 features or bug fixes, documenting new file formats or simply editing some
 grammar.
 
+Please take a moment to read through the [contribution guidelines](./CONTRIBUTING.md).
+
 You can also join the [Discord for development discussion]((https://discord.gg/xpdbWzG))
 if you are unsure of anything.