What are the formatting requirements for claims in a patent application?

The formatting requirements for claims in a patent application are specified in 37 CFR 1.75(h) and (i). Key requirements include:

  • Claims must commence on a separate physical sheet or electronic page.
  • Any sheet including a claim or portion of a claim may not contain any other parts of the application or other material.
  • Where a claim sets forth multiple elements or steps, each element or step should be separated by a line indentation.

The MPEP states: “The claim or claims must commence on a separate physical sheet or electronic page. Any sheet including a claim or portion of a claim may not contain any other parts of the application or other material.” and “Where a claim sets forth a plurality of elements or steps, each element or step of the claim should be separated by a line indentation.”

These formatting requirements enhance readability and clarity of the claims. For more detailed information on claim formatting, refer to MPEP § 608.01(m).

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Topics: Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: Claim Formatting, Line Indentation