diff --git a/.github/pull_request_template.md b/.github/pull_request_template.md
index fafcec8e1..02bb9b79a 100644
--- a/.github/pull_request_template.md
+++ b/.github/pull_request_template.md
@@ -1,4 +1,12 @@
+## Proposed changes
 
-Before submitting this PR, check the [contribution guidelines](CONTRIBUTING.md).
+Please include a description of the problem or feature this PR is addressing. If there is a corresponding issue, include the issue #.
 
-Make sure your code is formatted: `pre-commit run --all-files`.
+## Checklist
+
+Put an `x` in the boxes that apply.
+
+- [ ] I have read the [CONTRIBUTING](https://github.com/ml-explore/mlx/blob/main/CONTRIBUTING.md) document
+- [ ] I have run `pre-commit run --all-files` to format my code / installed pre-commit prior to committing changes
+- [ ] I have added tests that prove my fix is effective or that my feature works
+- [ ] I have updated the necessary documentation (if needed)