diff --git a/GeneralRelease.md b/GeneralRelease.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..3dab99f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/GeneralRelease.md
@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
+* Link to the repository: 
+* License: 
+* Link to forum threads discussing the extension:
+* Description of the extension: input, expected behavior, output
+* Compatible OpenRefine version:
+* Commitment statement:
+* Maintenance statement:
+* Contact Method:
+* AI statement:
+* Estimated end-of-life date for the extension:
+* Community achievements:
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diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 66c2239..304ad53 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -5,10 +5,14 @@ This repository contains a scaffold of an OpenRefine extension, which you can us
 See [our guide to writing extensions](https://openrefine.org/docs/technical-reference/writing-extensions) for more information about the process.
 
 ### Getting started
+Make sure to familiarize yourself with [our extension developer guidelines](https://openrefine.org/docs/technical-reference/extension-dev-guidelines).
 
-To start your own extension, click the "Use this template" button in the top right corner of this page.
+To start your own extension from this template, click the "Use this template" button in the top right corner of this page.
 This will create a copy of this repository, where you can then change:
 * The extension name and description in `module/MOD-INF/module.properties`
 * The `groupId`, `artifactId`, `name` and `description` fields in `pom.xml`
 * Edit this `README.md` file to describe your extension to potential users and contributors instead of the sample extension's own instructions
 
+### General Release 
+
+Please ensure that your repository contains the general release file with the relevant information.
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