When is a rewritten specification required for a patent application?

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.

A rewritten specification is required when interlineations or cancellations in the specification or amendments to the claims could lead to confusion and mistake during the issue and printing processes. The MPEP 1302.02 states:

“Whenever interlineations or cancellations have been made in the specification or amendments which would lead to confusion and mistake, the examiner should require the entire portion of specification affected to be rewritten before passing the application to issue.”

This requirement ensures clarity and accuracy in the final patent document.