diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..bfffbd7
--- /dev/null
+++ b/README.md
@@ -0,0 +1,75 @@
+# CS 61BL Skeleton - Summer 2025
+
+Welcome to the official **skeleton repository** for [CS 61BL](https://cs61bl.org/su25/), the Data Structures and Programming Methodology course offered in Summer 2025 at UC Berkeley.
+
+This repository provides the base code, configuration, and structure required for all CS 61BL labs, projects, and assignments.
+
+## 📚 Course Overview
+
+**CS 61BL** is a rigorous introduction to data structures, algorithms, and Java programming, with an emphasis on good software engineering practices. This skeleton helps students begin each assignment with a consistent, organized codebase.
+
+## 🛠️ Included in This Repository
+
+* Starter code and project scaffolding for all course components
+* Pre-configured development tools and settings
+* Interfaces, abstract classes, and test scaffolding for each lab/project
+* Code quality and style tools pre-integrated with course standards
+
+## 🚀 Getting Started
+
+To begin working with the skeleton:
+
+1. **Clone this repository:**
+
+   ```bash
+   git clone https://github.com/cs61bl/skeleton-su25.git
+   cd skeleton-su25
+   ```
+
+2. **Set up your remote for course autograder integration:**
+
+   Follow the [Lab 0 setup instructions](https://cs61bl.org/su25/labs/lab00/) to connect this skeleton to your private repository on GitHub Classroom.
+
+3. **Install Java and development tools:**
+
+   This course requires **Java 21** and supports **Visual Studio Code** or **IntelliJ IDEA**. See the [Environment Setup Guide](https://cs61bl.org/su25/labs/lab00/) for full instructions.
+
+## 🧪 Assignments & Workflow
+
+* Each lab or project will come with its own subfolder in this repository.
+* You’ll write code, complete tests, and push changes to your GitHub Classroom repository.
+* Use the provided `Makefile` or IDE build tools to compile and test your code.
+* The skeleton includes basic unit tests, but you are expected to write your own for full coverage.
+
+## ❗ Notes
+
+* Do **not** modify files marked with `@DoNotModify` unless instructed.
+* All assignments are submitted through your personal GitHub Classroom fork.
+* Autograder results will be shown in *GradeScope*.
+
+## 📦 Repository Structure
+
+```
+.
+├── proj1/             # Project 1 starter code
+├── lab01/             # Lab 1 starter code
+├── lab02/
+├── lab03/
+└── README.md          # This file
+```
+
+More folders will appear as the course progresses.
+
+## 🙋 Need Help?
+
+* [Course Website](https://cs61bl.org/su25/)
+* [Ed Discussion Forum](https://edstem.org/us/courses/XXXXX) *(link provided in course email)*
+* Office hours and lab times posted weekly
+
+## 📜 License
+
+This code is intended for **CS 61BL Summer 2025 students only**. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution is strictly prohibited. Refer to the Berkeley Honor Code and course policies.
+
+---
+
+© 2025 CS 61BL Instructional Team – University of California, Berkeley