Is paragraph numbering in patent office actions mandatory?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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. 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. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse First Office Action Must Identify Allowed Claims MPEP 707 Office Actions for Ex Parte Reexamination MPEP 707 Office Actions for Inter Partes Reexamination MPEP 707 First Office Action Requires Informal Patent Application Notice MPEP 707 Response to Office Actions Requires Specific Information MPEP 707 Recommended Office Action Includes Disclosures and Allowable Subject Matter MPEP 707 Permitted First Office Action Summary Required MPEP 707 Permitted Form Paragraphs Must Conclude Actions MPEP 707 Recommended Examiner Must Thoroughly Study and Investigate Patent Applications MPEP 707 Required Examiner Must Thoroughly Study and Investigate Prior Art During Reexamination MPEP 707 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can applicants request paragraph numbering in office actions if it&#8217;s not provided? Why should paragraphs in patent office actions be numbered? How does paragraph numbering in office actions benefit patent prosecution? What is the recommended format for numbering paragraphs in patent office actions? What is the significance of 35 U.S.C. 301 in citing prior art?