Writing · Free lesson
Release notes: what needs to change?
A team reads your release note to decide whether its existing export requests need an update. “New version available” does not answer that question.
Professor Scott MendozaThe short answer
Name what remains compatible, then state the action: “Existing export requests continue to work. No request changes are required.” This describes the supplied facts; it does not promise that every feature is unchanged or bug-free.
Separate compatibility from required action.
Compatible with tells the reader what can work together. In a release note, identify the existing use that still works, then explain whether a change is required. An optional new field can be available without forcing existing users to send it. Only say no changes are required when the verified facts support that scope. Compatibility is not a substitute for testing.
Compare the examples
The new export endpoint is compatible with existing export requests.
No request changes are required for existing exports.
To add a label, include the optional label field.
No changes are required concerns obligation. No changes are possible would mean something different.
Build the meaning step by step
Name the existing use
existing export requests
State what continues
continue to work
State the obligation
No request changes are required.
Try it now
Read the action accurately
Read all answers and explanations
Existing exports work without request changes. Which note preserves that fact?
Existing export requests continue to work.The middle statement preserves the named use without a universal guarantee.
The label field is optional. What does this mean?
Users can include it when they want a label.Optional permits a choice; it is neither required nor forbidden.
Choose the sentence that says a request update is unnecessary.
No request changes are required.Required concerns necessity; possible concerns possibility.
Put it into practice
Repair the release note
Fictional verified facts: existing exports still work; label is an optional new field. Choose the note that reports both facts without adding a guarantee.
New version! Everyone must update, but nothing has changed.
See a model answer
Existing export requests continue to work. No request changes are required. To add a label, include the optional label field.
The note answers the receiving team’s decision without broadening the evidence.
A little more clarity
Common questions
A few useful details before you move on.
What does backward compatible mean here?
It means the new version supports the named previous use. It does not mean the software has no new features or no possible bugs.
The update remains compatible with existing export requests.
What if compatibility has not been verified?
State the uncertainty instead of claiming no changes are needed. Name what is still being checked.
Compatibility with existing export requests is still being checked.
Take it into your day
Name the existing use, state the required action, and avoid a wider guarantee.
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