Operational Specification · Feb 2026
The 4-Space Contract
In most systems, indentation is cosmetic. In CLN, indentation is a contract. To indent is to claim understanding of the relationship.
01/Definition
Core
= The 4-Space Contract: Indenting a line is claiming ownership of a relationship.
= "This fact belongs to that point, and I know why."
02/What Each Level Means
Level 0Header / TOPIC
Level 1Primary / CLAIMS
Level 2Evidence / SUPPORT
Level 3Detail / NUANCE
03/The Litmus Test
Thought Tool
! If you can't decide which level a fact belongs to:
= You don't understand its relationship to the whole.
= The indentation decision IS the thinking.
+ Forced hierarchy reveals logical gaps.
+ Flat notes (all Level 1) reveal shallow analysis.
04/Why 4, Not 2?
. Two spaces create ambiguity. Four spaces create certainty.
. The eye tracks columns vertically; 4 spaces create distinct vertical bands.
. Pre-attentive processing: the brain grasps structure before reading words.
* Rule: Same-level operators must align vertically. Use 4 spaces (never tabs).