diff --git a/CONTRIBUTING.md b/CONTRIBUTING.md
index db58dfd1a..7cbfd052a 100644
--- a/CONTRIBUTING.md
+++ b/CONTRIBUTING.md
@@ -22,12 +22,15 @@ Install the following before you begin.
 
 ## Getting Started
 
-Install the root dependencies and build the TypeScript plugin:
+Install the root dependencies, link the local CLI, and build the TypeScript plugin:
 
 ```bash
 # Install root dependencies (OpenClaw + CLI entry point)
 npm install
 
+# Link the local CLI so `nemoclaw` resolves on your PATH during development
+npm link
+
 # Install and build the TypeScript plugin
 cd nemoclaw && npm install && npm run build && cd ..