---
description: Keep env.example and readme.md documentation in sync
globs: env.example,readme.md,**/env.example,**/readme.md
alwaysApply: true
---

## env.example and readme.md

The tracked environment template is `env.example` at the project root (the install wizard parses it; `.env` is local and gitignored).

**Whenever you add, remove, or rename a variable in `env.example`, you must update `readme.md`** — specifically the **Environment variables** (or equivalent) section.

For each key in `env.example`, the readme must explain:

- What the value is for
- **Where and how a user should obtain** that value (which product UI, console path, or short steps). Prefer stable patterns such as “Google Cloud Console → APIs & Services → Credentials” rather than fragile deep links where possible; official docs links are fine.

**Also update the readme when:**

- Install or env-related behavior changes (e.g. `install.php`, redirects, CLI vs web)
- New sections in `env.example` (mirror with a readme subsection and user-facing guidance)

Do not leave new `env.example` keys undocumented in the readme. The install wizard only reflects `env.example`; human-readable acquisition steps live in the readme.
