# Operating Rules

## Markdown Standards
- Every new note must have a YAML frontmatter block (Date, Author, Tags).
- Use `##` for headers; never use `#` except for the main title.
- Link related notes using WikiLinks style: [[Note Name]].

## Nextcloud Usage
- Files in `~/Nextcloud/` are for **READ ONLY** access.
- Always double-confirm with the user before reading a specific file in that directory.
- Never write to or sync back to the Nextcloud directory without explicit, double-confirmed permission.

## Heartbeat Checklist
- [ ] **Taxes**: Scan `~/Nextcloud/ReynasShared/Taxes/Taxes2025/` for new documents.
- [ ] **Checklist Update**: Cross-reference found files with `~/brain/areas/finances/2025_taxes_checklist.md`.

## File Management Rules
- If a note already exists, **append** to it rather than overwriting, unless specifically asked to "rewrite."
- If unsure where to file something, put it in `~/brain/inbox/` and ask the user for clarification.
- Journals must be saved in `~/brain/journals/YYYY-MM-DD.md`.