diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index d8c62eb1..cd39c66e 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -26,6 +26,8 @@ mkdir my-project && cd my-project
 git init
 ```
 
+**✓ Validate:** Run `git status` — you should see "No commits yet".
+
 ### 2. Install Squad
 
 ```bash
@@ -33,6 +35,8 @@ npm install --save-dev @bradygaster/squad-cli
 npx squad init
 ```
 
+**✓ Validate:** Check that `.squad/team.md` was created in your project.
+
 **Or use npx (no install):** `npx @bradygaster/squad-cli` — see [Migration Guide](docs/get-started/migration.md) if upgrading from an older version.
 
 ### 3. Authenticate with GitHub (for Issues, PRs, and Ralph)
@@ -41,6 +45,8 @@ npx squad init
 gh auth login
 ```
 
+**✓ Validate:** Run `gh auth status` — you should see "Logged in to github.com".
+
 ### 4. Open Copilot and go
 
 ```
@@ -57,6 +63,8 @@ I'm starting a new project. Set up the team.
 Here's what I'm building: a recipe sharing app with React and Node.
 ```
 
+**✓ Validate:** Squad responds with team member proposals. Type `yes` to confirm — they're ready to work.
+
 Squad proposes a team — each member named from a persistent thematic cast. You say **yes**. They're ready.
 
 ---