How should claim numbering be handled in patent applications?

Proper claim numbering is essential in patent applications. According to MPEP 608.01(m):

• Claims must be numbered consecutively in Arabic numerals.
• The claim number should be placed to the left of the claim text.
• When claims are canceled, the remaining claims must not be renumbered.

The MPEP states:

‘The claim or claims must commence on a separate physical sheet or electronic page and should appear after the detailed description of the invention. Any sheet including a claim or portion of a claim may not contain any other parts of the application or other material. Claims must be numbered consecutively in Arabic numerals starting with 1.’

Proper claim numbering ensures clarity and helps examiners and others navigate the patent application efficiently.

To learn more:

• claim numbering
• patent application formatting
• MPEP guidelines