What should not be included in a PCT application abstract?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27
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 1826, a PCT application abstract should not include:
- Statements on the alleged merits or value of the invention
- Speculative applications of the invention
- Superfluous language
- Legal phraseology such as “said” and “means”
- Prohibited items as defined in PCT Rule 9
The MPEP states: “The abstract shall not contain statements on the alleged merits or value of the claimed invention or on its speculative application.” This ensures that the abstract remains an objective summary of the technical disclosure.