What are the recommended search engines for patent examiners?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. According to MPEP 904.02(c) , patent examiners are encouraged to use the following search engines for their research: Google : A widely-used general-purpose search engine Google Scholar : Specifically for academic and scientific literature Bing : Microsoft’s search engine, offering an alternative perspective DuckDuckGo : A privacy-focused search engine The MPEP states: “ Examiners are encouraged to use the most effective search tools available, which include, in addition to USPTO internal tools, internet search engines … such as Google, Google Scholar, Bing, and DuckDuckGo. ” This list provides examiners with a range of options to conduct comprehensive internet searches. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Internet Searches Must Protect Confidential IP MPEP 904.02(c) Internet Searches Must Protect Confidential IP MPEP 904.02(c) Internet Searches Must Limit to General Art and Protect Confidential IP MPEP 904.02(c) Required Internet Search Queries Not Restricted for Published Applications MPEP 904.02(c) Examiner Internet Search Must Comply With Confidentiality MPEP 904.02(c) Required Patent Examiner Search Strategies Required MPEP 904.02(c) Internet Provides Additional Information for Patent Examiners MPEP 904.02(c) Search Strategies Must Be Documented MPEP 904.02(c) Required Search Updates Must Include All Relevant Databases and Queries MPEP 904 Recommended Policy for Internet Use by Patent Examining Corps MPEP 904.02(c) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the benefits of using internet searching in patent examination? What are the best practices for citing Internet sources in patent office actions? What are the guidelines for citing internet ...