ADR011 - Sequential Numbering
ADR numbers should be sequential with no gaps.
Why This Rule Exists
Sequential numbering:
- Makes it easy to identify missing ADRs
- Provides clear ordering
- Indicates the decision timeline
- Helps with navigation
Format
ADRs should be numbered starting from 1 (or 0) without gaps:
0001-record-decisions.md # ADR 1
0002-use-rust.md # ADR 2
0003-database-choice.md # ADR 3
Examples
Incorrect
0001-record-decisions.md # ADR 1
0003-database-choice.md # ADR 3 (gap - where is 2?)
0004-use-kubernetes.md # ADR 4
Correct
0001-record-decisions.md # ADR 1
0002-use-rust.md # ADR 2
0003-database-choice.md # ADR 3
0004-use-kubernetes.md # ADR 4
Collection Rule
This rule analyzes all ADR documents in a directory together to check for gaps.
Note on Rejected ADRs
Even rejected ADRs should keep their numbers. Don't delete or renumber ADRs:
0001-record-decisions.md # Accepted
0002-use-java.md # Rejected (keep it!)
0003-use-rust.md # Accepted (supersedes thinking in 0002)
Rule Details
- Rule ID: ADR011
- Name: adr-sequential-numbering
- Category: Structure
- Severity: Warning
- Type: Collection rule (multi-document)
- Automatic Fix: Not available