diff --git a/doc/Hacking.md b/doc/Hacking.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a637d1c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/doc/Hacking.md
@@ -0,0 +1,47 @@
+Easy-RSA 3 Hacking Guide
+===
+
+This is a brief document aimed at programmers looking to improve on the existing
+codebase.
+
+Compatibility
+---
+
+The `easyrsa` code is written in POSIX shell (and any cases where it is not is
+considered a bug to be fixed.) The only exceptions are the `local` keyword and
+the construct `export FOO=baz`, both well-supported.
+
+As such, modifications to the code should also be POSIX; platform-specific code
+should be placed under the `distro/` dir and listed by target platform.
+
+Coding conventions
+---
+
+While there aren't strict syntax standards associated with the project, please
+follow the existing format and flow when possible; however, specific exceptions
+can be made if there is a significant reason or benefit.
+
+Do try to:
+
+  * Keep variables locally-scoped when possible
+  * Comment sections of code for readability
+  * Use the conventions for prefixes on global variables
+
+Keeping code, docs, and examples in sync
+---
+
+Changes that adjust, add, or remove features should have relevant docs, help
+output, and examples updated at the same time.
+
+Release versioning
+---
+
+A point-release bump (eg: 3.0 to 3.1) is required when the frontend interface
+changes in a non-backwards compatible way. Always assume someone has an
+automated process that relies on the current functionality for official
+(non-beta, non-rc) releases. A possible exception exists for bugfixes that do
+break backwards-compatibility; caution is to be used in such cases.
+
+The addition of a new command may or may not require a point-release depending
+on the significance of the feature; the same holds true for additional optional
+arguments to commands.