Can applicants request paragraph numbering in office actions if it’s not provided?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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. While MPEP 707.07(k) recommends paragraph numbering as good practice, it does not explicitly address whether applicants can request it. The MPEP states: It is good practice to number the paragraphs of the Office action consecutively. If an office action is received without paragraph numbering, applicants may consider: Informally requesting the examiner to use paragraph numbering in future communications Numbering the paragraphs themselves when responding, to facilitate clear communication Contacting the USPTO’s customer service if the lack of numbering significantly hinders effective communication While there’s no formal process for requesting paragraph numbering, open communication with the examiner about preferences can often lead to more effective prosecution. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse First Office Action Must Identify Allowed Claims MPEP 707 No Formal Search Report Required for Fee Refund in Later Filed International Application MPEP 707 Required Examiner May Rely on Applicant Admissions for Rejections MPEP 707 Permitted Office Actions for Ex Parte Reexamination MPEP 707 Office Actions for Inter Partes Reexamination MPEP 707 First Office Action Requires Informal Patent Application Notice MPEP 707 Response to Office Actions Requires Specific Information MPEP 707 Recommended Office Action Includes Disclosures and Allowable Subject Matter MPEP 707 Permitted First Office Action Summary Required MPEP 707 Permitted Examiner Must Provide Reasons for Allowing Claims MPEP 707 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Is paragraph numbering in patent office actions mandatory? Why should paragraphs in patent office actions be numbered? How does paragraph...