How do guidance headings help in patent classification?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 8 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. Guidance headings play a crucial role in patent classification by providing structure and organization to the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) schemes. As outlined in MPEP 905.01(a)(4) , these headings serve several purposes: They indicate common subject matter for large parts of a subclass Act as titles for groups of main groups without specific symbols Describe shared subject matter across multiple main groups By using guidance headings, patent examiners and researchers can more easily navigate complex classification structures, leading to more efficient prior art searches and patent examinations. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 8 rules Collapse Multipart Title Describes Separate Information Entities MPEP 905.01(a) Recommended Multipart Title Separated by Semicolon MPEP 905.01(a) Recommended Subclass Covers Refrigerators, Cold Rooms, Ice Boxes, and Other Cooling Devices MPEP 905.01(a) Recommended Petitions to Expunge Secrecy-Ordered Subject Matter MPEP 1002.02(c)(1) Examiners Must Be Alert for Sensitive Subject Matter MPEP 115 Examiner Must Report Sensitive Subject Matter MPEP 115 Recommended Consent to Disclosure of Common Subject Matter MPEP 120 Permitted Subject Matter Under Secrecy Order Must Be Protected MPEP 120 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does the hierarchical application of Notes work in CPC schemes? What is the difference between Notes at different levels of the CPC hierarchy? Why are Notes important in the CPC classification process? What types of information do Notes provide in CPC schemes? What are references in CPC titles and how do they affect classification?