The word "MANDATORY" on Jepp charts is their unique graphic presentation that the underlying procedure as defined in the National AIP has a "hard" - "exactly at" altitude restriction.
As correctly pointed out above, or maybe not, a continuous descent without a level segment does not automatically mean you screwed up, arrived at FAF above the coded altitude and failed to meet the activation criteria for the VNAV guidance to final approach.
My understanding is the OP flies the 737, so perhaps holding the airbus horses would be prudent. The lingo and modes there is many times confusing even for the rated guys, plus the "B" manufacturer's kit is superior in this regard.
Last edited by FlightDetent; 24th Oct 2019 at 12:50.