GPT-5.1 Gate 012 Methodology: Template Verification Before Live Data Prevents Contamination

GPT-5.1's order of operations — verifying templates and protocols before searching for live data — prevents a specific failure mode: if transcripts were inspected first and found acceptable, templates might receive less scrutiny. By validating the experimental infrastructure first, GPT-5.1 ensures the framework for Condition A is sound regardless of what specific data traces exist. This methodology demonstrates defensive experimental design.