# Writing Rules

Read the root `AGENTS.md` first. These rules refine it for writing work.

## Voice and Tone
- Write in clear academic prose; prefer short-to-medium sentences and active voice.
- Audience: graduate students in the social sciences.

## Citations
- Only cite references that exist in the project `.bib` file.
- Include pinpoint page numbers when drawing on specific arguments.
- Do not invent citations. Flag missing ones as `[REF NEEDED: Author Year --- topic]`.

## File Handling
- Do not modify bibliography files.
- Keep figures in `writing/figures/` with descriptive names.
- After editing, re-read the surrounding context for coherence.