diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 255fca0f2..ac3aadd67 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -23,10 +23,16 @@ are familiar with the patterns.
 
 # Getting started
 
-Before you dive into the material, you should be familiar with various 
-[Programming/Software Design Principles](http://webpro.github.io/programming-principles/). 
+Before you dive into the material, you should be familiar with various
+[Programming/Software Design Principles](http://webpro.github.io/programming-principles/).
 
-Once you are familiar with these concepts you can start drilling down into patterns by any of the following approaches
+All designs should be as simple as possible. You should start with KISS, YAGNI,
+and Do The Simplest Thing That Could Possibly Work principles. Complexity and
+patterns should only be introduced when they are needed for practical
+extensibility.
+
+Once you are familiar with these concepts you can start drilling down into
+patterns by any of the following approaches
 
  - Using difficulty tags, `Difficulty-Beginner`, `Difficulty-Intermediate` & `Difficulty-Expert`.
  - Using pattern categories, `Creational`, `Behavioral` and others.