diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 101822e..64b3585 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -6,3 +6,5 @@ Sample repo for showing how to use GitHub Actions for a .NET Framework app.
 Blog post: https://timheuer.com/blog/building-net-framework-apps-using-github-actions/
 
 <!-- test pr -->
+
+_Test PR note (2026-07-22): validating that new PR creation opens on a fresh, unique branch._