What are the formatting requirements for a computer program listing appendix?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27
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 608.05(a), a computer program listing appendix must meet specific formatting requirements:
- ASCII text file format
- No more than 72 characters per line
- No more than 60 lines per page
- Must begin with a page header
The MPEP states: “A computer program listing appendix shall be submitted as a text file in ASCII text.” It further specifies that “No line shall exceed 72 characters in length. … No more than 60 lines of code may be included on a single page.“