How does an examiner communicate minor drawing changes to the applicant?

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.

According to MPEP 608.02(w), when an application is ready for issue except for a slight defect in the drawing, the examiner will communicate the necessary changes to the applicant as follows:

• Prepare a letter to the applicant indicating the change to be made
• May include a marked-up copy of the drawing showing the addition or alteration
• Attach the marked-up copy of the drawing to the letter
• Make the letter and marked-up drawing of record in the application file

This process allows for efficient communication of minor drawing changes without requiring the applicant to submit annotated sheets.