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CONTRIBUTING.md

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+# Contributing to Zeus
+
+## Welcome!
+
+We're excited that you're considering contributing to Zeus! Your contributions are vital for keeping Zeus innovative, robust, and user-friendly.
+
+## What to Know Before You Contribute
+
+### Dual Purpose
+
+Zeus serves two main goals:
+1. **Research Artifact**: A platform for disseminating cutting-edge research in the field of machine learning energy (i.e., [ML.ENERGY](https://ml.energy)).
+2. **Practical Tool**: We aim to make Zeus highly usable in real-world scenarios.
+
+### Governance
+
+Zeus follows a **BDFL (Benevolent Dictator For Life)** governance model. The project founder (Jae-Won Chung) retains decisive authority to ensure alignment with the goals of Zeus.
+
+## Ways to Contribute
+
+- **Bug Reports and Fixes**: We use GitHub Issues for bug tracking.
+- **New Features**: You can submit feature proposals via GitHub Issues.
+- **Documentation**: Enhancing the README and documentation (both inline with code or under [`/docs`](/docs)) is also welcome.
+
+## Process
+
+1. **Fork & Clone**: Fork the repository and clone it to your local machine.
+2. **Create an Issue**: Discuss your proposed changes via a new GitHub Issue.
+3. **Branch**: Create a new branch for your feature or fix.
+4. **Code and Test**: Write code and make sure to add tests. `pytest` should successfully terminate including the new tests you wrote.
+5. **Format and Lint**: Run `bash scripts/lint.sh` and make sure it runs without complaining.
+6. **Pull Request**: Open a PR to the main repository. Ensure all CI checks pass before requesting a review.
+
+## Coding Standards
+
+- Python >= 3.9
+- Run [`scripts/lint.sh`](/scripts/lint.sh) to format and lint code.
+- Strictly type-annotate all code.
+- Tests should accompany new features and be placed in the `tests/` directory.
+
+## Review Process
+
+Your PR will undergo review by the maintainers. Approval is based on its alignment with Zeus's dual goals and overall vision.
+
+## License
+
+By contributing to Zeus, you agree to license your contributions under our [Apache-2.0 License](/LICENSE).