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phases/8-release-docs-packaging/step3.md

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+# Step 3: release-checklist
+
+## Read First
+- /AGENTS.md
+- /PLAN.md
+- /PROGRESS.md
+- /docs/HARNESS.md
+- /docs/IMPLEMENTATION_PLAN.md
+- /README.md
+- /docs/TOOLCHAIN.md
+
+## Task
+Create the local MVP release checklist.
+
+Include validation, sample smoke conversion, environment checks, offline cache readiness, known limitations, and next phase entry conditions.
+
+## Sprint Contract
+- Done means: the repository has a concise checklist for deciding whether the local MVP is ready for personal use.
+- Hard thresholds: checklist references real commands; known limitations are explicit; PyQt phase remains separate.
+- Files owned: `README.md`, optional `docs/RELEASE_CHECKLIST.md`, `PROGRESS.md`, phase index.
+- Dependencies: Prior release docs steps.
+
+## Acceptance Criteria
+```powershell
+python scripts\validate_workspace.py
+```
+
+## Verification
+1. Run the acceptance command.
+2. Confirm checklist can be followed by a fresh agent or user.
+3. Update `PROGRESS.md` and this phase index.
+
+## Do Not
+- Do not claim production readiness.
+- Do not include hosted API release work.
+- Do not start PyQt implementation.