How should references to other claims be formatted in patent applications?

When referring to other claims in a patent application, specific formatting rules must be followed according to MPEP 608.01(m):

• References to other claims must be in the alternative only.
• Dependent claims should refer to a preceding claim.
• Claims should refer to other claims by number, not by the order they appear.

The MPEP states:

‘Reference to other claims should be in the alternative only. See 37 CFR 1.75(c). A form of claim that may be used is as follows: ‘A machine according to claim 3 or 4, further comprising —‘.’

Proper referencing ensures clarity and prevents confusion about the scope and dependencies of claims.

To learn more:

• claim references
• patent application formatting
• MPEP guidelines