When is a broad claim considered indefinite?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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 broad claim is considered indefinite when it lacks clarity in defining its scope. The MPEP 2173.04 states: “ A broad claim is not indefinite merely because it encompasses a wide scope of subject matter provided the scope is clearly defined. But a claim is indefinite when the boundaries of the protected subject matter are not clearly delineated and the scope is unclear. “ This means that breadth itself doesn’t make a claim indefinite. Rather, indefiniteness occurs when: The boundaries of the protected subject matter are not clearly defined There is ambiguity in the claim language leading to multiple reasonable interpretations The scope of the claim cannot be determined with reasonable certainty In essence, a broad claim becomes indefinite when its language fails to provide clear guidance on what is and isn’t covered by the claim. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Claim Is Indefinite When Scope Unclear MPEP 2173.04 Breadth Not Indefiniteness If Clearly Defined MPEP 2173.04 Breadth Is Not Indefiniteness for Genus Claims MPEP 2173.04 Claim Breadth Is Not Equated with Indefiniteness MPEP 2173.04 Genus Claim Must Clearly Define Species MPEP 2173.04 Requirement for Clear Claim Language MPEP 2173 Permitted Claims Must Clearly Define Boundaries MPEP 2173 Required Requirement for Clear Claim Boundaries MPEP 2173 Required Claims Must Be Clear and Definite MPEP 2173 Definiteness Requirement for Claims MPEP 2173 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the difference between breadth and indefiniteness in patent claims? What statutory provisions address undue breadth in patent claims? How does the USPTO determine if a claim is too broad? When should...