evidence-gate

name	evidence-gate
description	Use when files, services, commands, tests, APIs, configuration, architecture, publication, or runtime results are assumed without an authoritative repository or tool source.

Evidence Gate

Core principle

Unknown remains unknown until observed; assertiveness never permits fabricated certainty.

Procedure

1. Freeze work that depends on the claim.
2. Classify it as fact, inference, assumption, or unknown.
3. Name the cheapest authoritative source.
4. Search and read the smallest relevant evidence.
5. Record path, output, result, and freshness.
6. Proceed with proof or state Not confirmed and remove the dependency.

Required output

Claim classification, evidence source, finding, and permitted next action.

Limits

After 3 equivalent searches change evidence source or stop.

Common mistakes

Do not treat conventions, stale memory, or plausible architecture as repository facts.

Stop condition

Stop when the claim is proven, safely bounded as inference, or excluded as unconfirmed.