What is the purpose of ‘See or Search’ notes in USPC definitions?

The ‘See or Search’ notes in USPC definitions serve several important purposes:

1. They explain the relationship between different subject matter collections.
2. They highlight differences between related classifications.
3. They assist users in deciding whether to include or exclude certain areas in their search.

As stated in MPEP 902.02(a): “‘See or Search’ notes are helpful in explaining the limits of a class or subclass. They generally state the relationship to, and difference from, other identified subject matter collections. Each ‘See or Search’ note helps a user reach a decision either to include or exclude an area containing relevant subject matter.”

These notes are invaluable tools for patent examiners and attorneys in conducting comprehensive prior art searches.

To learn more:

• USPC
• See or Search Notes
• Patent Classification
• Prior Art Search