How should claims be numbered in a patent application?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 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. According to MPEP 608.01(m) , claims in a patent application should be numbered consecutively in Arabic numerals. 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. This numbering system helps organize the claims and makes it easier for examiners and others to reference specific claims within the application. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Claims Must Appear After Description MPEP 608.01(m) Required Claims Must Be Separated From Other Material MPEP 608.01(m) Prohibited Claims Must Find Basis in Original Disclosure MPEP 608 Required Amendments and Other Papers Must Comply With Rules MPEP 608 Claims Must Begin with 'I/we Claim' MPEP 608.01(m) Claims Must Indent Each Element MPEP 608.01(m) Recommended Claims Must Vary From Broadest to Most Detailed MPEP 608.01(m) Permitted Claims Must Be Ordered by Scope MPEP 608.01(m) Recommended Dependent Claims Should Be Grouped With Referenced Claims MPEP 608.01(m) Recommended Claims of Like Species Should Be Grouped Together MPEP 608.01(m) Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the proper format for a multiple dependent claim? Can a claim refer to figures or tables in the specification? How should multiple dependent claims be formatted in a patent application? How should references to other claims be formatted in patent applications? What are the requirements for claim numbering in patent applications?