What technical information can examiners request about the invention?

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.

Examiners can request a wide range of technical information about the invention. According to MPEP 704.11, this may include:

• ‘Technical information known to applicant concerning the related art, the disclosure, the claimed subject matter, other factual information pertinent to patentability, or concerning the accuracy of the examiner’s stated interpretation of such items.’
• Explanations of specific technical terms or phrases used in the application
• Details about the invention’s operation, structure, or chemical composition
• Information about the invention’s utility or practical applications
• Clarification on any ambiguities in the specification or claims

This technical information helps examiners fully understand the invention and assess its patentability in light of the prior art and statutory requirements.