What are the specific categories of abstract ideas recognized by the USPTO?

The USPTO recognizes four main categories of abstract ideas:

  • Mathematical concepts: Including mathematical relationships, formulas, equations, and calculations.
  • Certain methods of organizing human activity: Such as fundamental economic principles, commercial interactions, and managing personal behavior or relationships.
  • Mental processes: Concepts performed in the human mind, including observation, evaluation, judgment, and opinion.
  • Other abstract ideas: Ideas that do not fit neatly into the above categories but are still considered abstract.

As stated in MPEP 2106.04(a): “The enumerated groupings of abstract ideas are defined as: 1) Mathematical concepts […]; 2) Certain methods of organizing human activity […]; and 3) Mental processes […].”

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Topics: MPEP 2100 - Patentability, MPEP 2106.04(A) - Abstract Ideas, Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: Abstract Ideas, Patent Eligibility, Uspto Categories