diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 04213ae..7b5060f 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -7,6 +7,8 @@ A Machine-to-Machine interaction system for Lean 4.
 Pantograph provides interfaces to execute proofs, construct expressions, and
 examine the symbol list of a Lean project for machine learning.
 
+See [documentations][doc/] for design rationale and references.
+
 ## Installation
 
 For Nix users, run
diff --git a/doc/rationale.md b/doc/rationale.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..87c1606
--- /dev/null
+++ b/doc/rationale.md
@@ -0,0 +1,30 @@
+# Design Rationale
+
+A great problem in machine learning is to use ML agents to automatically prove
+mathematical theorems. This sort of proof necessarily involves *search*.
+Compatibility for search is the main reason for creating Pantograph.  The Lean 4
+LSP interface is not conducive to search. Pantograph is designed with this in
+mind. It emphasizes the difference between 3 views of a proof:
+
+- **Presentation View**: The view of a written, polished proof. e.g. Mathlib and
+  math papers are almost always written in this form.
+- **Search View**: The view of a proof exploration trajectory. This is not
+  explicitly supported by Lean LSP.
+- **Kernel View**: The proof viewed as a set of metavariables.
+
+Pantograph enables proof agents to operate on the search view.
+
+## Name
+
+The name Pantograph is a pun. It means two things
+- A pantograph is an instrument for copying down writing. As an agent explores
+  the vast proof search space, Pantograph records the current state to ensure
+  the proof is sound.
+- A pantograph is also an equipment for an electric train. It supplies power to
+  a locomotive. In comparison the (relatively) simple Pantograph software powers
+  theorem proving projects.
+
+## References
+
+* [Pantograph Paper](https://arxiv.org/abs/2410.16429)
+