Is paragraph numbering in patent office actions mandatory?

While MPEP 707.07(k) recommends numbering paragraphs in patent office actions, it is not explicitly stated as mandatory. The MPEP describes it as ‘good practice’:

It is good practice to number the paragraphs of the Office action consecutively.

This wording suggests that while highly recommended, paragraph numbering is not a strict requirement. However, patent examiners are generally encouraged to follow this practice to improve the clarity and efficiency of patent prosecution.

To learn more:

• Office Actions
• Patent Examination
• Document Formatting
• Patent Prosecution