How are Abstracts and Abbreviatures cited in patent references?

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.

Abstracts and Abbreviatures are cited in patent references as follows:

• They are listed under ‘Other References’ in citations.
• The citation format includes the author’s name, type of document (abstract or abbreviature), serial number, filing date, publication details, and classification if available.

The MPEP provides this example citation format: Brown, (abstract or abbreviature) of Serial No. …….., filed …………., published in OG ………, on …….., (list classification).

It’s important to note that these are historical forms of publication and are no longer actively produced.