Should I include drawings or chemical formulas in my patent application abstract?

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 the abstract itself should not include drawings, it can refer to them. The MPEP 608.01(b) provides guidance on including references to drawings and chemical formulas:

Where applicable, the abstract should include the following: (1) if a machine or apparatus, its organization and operation; (2) if an article, its method of making; (3) if a chemical compound, its identity and use; (4) if a mixture, its ingredients; (5) if a process, the steps.

When referencing drawings:

• Use reference characters (in parentheses) when referring to parts shown in the drawings
• Do not include actual drawings in the abstract itself

For chemical formulas, you can include them if they best summarize the invention, but ensure they fit within the 150-word limit and single-paragraph format.