diff --git a/CONTRIBUTING.md b/CONTRIBUTING.md
index 385c575b..0c6c0e6b 100644
--- a/CONTRIBUTING.md
+++ b/CONTRIBUTING.md
@@ -46,3 +46,6 @@ cd chrome-extensions-samples
 # install dependencies
 npm install
 ```
+### Writing a README
+
+All code samples should include a README file. Please copy the [provided template](./README-template.md) into your sample's folder and follow the instructions therein.
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/README-template.md b/README-template.md
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..2cff1d2e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/README-template.md
@@ -0,0 +1,22 @@
+_To create a README for your sample_
+
+1. _Copy this file to your sample folder._
+1. _Enter the requested information below._
+1. _Delete all intructions._
+
+
+_For API samples use the name of the API. For example, a sample about the `chrome.declarativeNetRequest` would simply be called "chrome.declarativeNetRequest". (Do not use special formatting in headings.) For functional samples, the title should be what the sample demonstrates_
+
+# Title
+
+_Describe what the sample demonstrates. If this is an API sample, link to the API._
+
+This sample demonstrates ...
+
+## Overview
+
+_Describe how the sample demonstrates the API or use case and briefly describe how to use it._
+
+## Implementation Notes
+
+_Add any information that doesn't fit elsewhere in the README._