Can I include detailed descriptions of the drawings in the Brief Description section?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09

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.

No, detailed descriptions of the drawings should not be included in the Brief Description section of a patent application. According to MPEP 608.01(f):

The specification should not normally describe the drawings in detail, but should concentrate on defining the invention.

The Brief Description section should only contain:

  • References to each figure by number
  • A concise explanation of what each figure represents

Detailed descriptions of the drawings and how they relate to the invention should be reserved for the Detailed Description section of the specification.

Topics: Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: drawings