Software release
Original research draft · October 2026
Working pattern
[Creator], [Software name] ([version/commit], [date]), [repository/release URL].
Capture from the source
Version; author; repository; module; settings when relevant
Check before you use it
Identify the actual release used and preserve configuration for a reproducible analysis.
Common error: Citing software does not prove that it was configured correctly.
Completed example
Software, lab, versions, settings, build identifier, and run artifacts are fictional. The .example URL is illustrative; no actual repository, commit, or capability is asserted.
Northmere Research Lab, RegisterCompare (v. 2.4.1, build TRAIN-SW-079, July 7, 2025), https://training.example/software/registercompare/2.4.1.
Read the supplied source facts
Fictional packet TRAIN-W79 documents the invented software RegisterCompare, created by the Northmere Research Lab, release 2.4.1 dated July 7, 2025, build identifier TRAIN-SW-079. The analysis uses its match module with case folding enabled and punctuation normalization disabled. Release 2.5 changes the default punctuation setting, and the repository's main page now describes that newer release. The assignment asks the analyst to identify the software actually used to generate a preserved comparison table. The packet includes the release manifest, configuration file, input snapshot, and run log for the earlier release.
Why this works
The creator, product, version, build, and release address distinguish the used software from the moving main branch or a newer release. State the material settings beside the analysis or in its methods record, because the citation alone does not disclose configuration. Preserve the input snapshot and run log so another reviewer can reproduce the table. A successful program execution is not proof that the chosen normalization matches the research question. Inspect representative outputs and failures, especially where a setting may merge distinct names or split equivalent references. Software identity and analytic validity are separate checks.
When the facts change
If rerunning under version 2.5, record the actual settings instead of assuming that unchanged command text produces identical behavior. If a local patch changes the module, identify the patched build and preserve the patch rather than citing the unmodified public release alone. If the program only formats a human-verified citation, describe that limited role instead of implying automated verification of every underlying legal claim.
Apply the receiving court or publication’s requirements. These working forms do not establish citation permission, precedential weight, or support for a legal proposition.