diff --git a/.github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE.md b/.github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE.md
index 83892035c0..9e43aa0244 100644
--- a/.github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE.md
+++ b/.github/PULL_REQUEST_TEMPLATE.md
@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ _Briefly describe the new feature(s), enhancement(s), or bugfix(es) included in
 
 **Related Issues**
 
-__If this addresses an open GitHub Issue, mention the issue number here. Use the phrases `fixes #221` or `closes #135`, when you want those issues to be automatically closed when the pull request is merged_
+_If this addresses an open GitHub issue for this project, please mention the issue number here, and describe the relation. Use the phrases `fixes #221` or `closes #135`, when you want an issue to be automatically closed when the pull request is merged_
 
 **Author(s)**
 
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ By submitting this pull request, I agree, that my contribution will be included
 
 **Backward Compatibility**
 
-_Please state whether any changes in the pull request break backward compatibility for inputs, and - if yes - explain what has been changed and why_
+_Please state whether any changes in the pull request will break backward compatibility for inputs, and - if yes - explain what has been changed and why_
 
 **Implementation Notes**
 
@@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ _Provide any relevant details about how the changes are implemented, how correct
 
 **Post Submission Checklist**
 
-_Please check the fields below as they are completed **after** the pull request has been submitted_
+_Please check the fields below as they are completed **after** the pull request has been submitted. Delete lines that don't apply_
 
 - [ ] The feature or features in this pull request is complete
 - [ ] Licensing information is complete