diff --git a/RELEASE.txt b/RELEASE.txt
index 80bf4cab..d29143aa 100644
--- a/RELEASE.txt
+++ b/RELEASE.txt
@@ -1,6 +1,8 @@
 How to make a new release of ``skimage``
 ========================================
 
+- Check ``TODO.txt`` for any outstanding tasks.
+
 - Update release notes.
 
   - To show a list contributors, run ``doc/release/contributors.sh <commit>``,