What are the four categories of statutory subject matter for patent eligibility?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 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. The four categories of statutory subject matter for patent eligibility, as enumerated in 35 U.S.C. 101 , are: Processes Machines Manufactures Compositions of matter As stated in the MPEP: “ These “four categories together describe the exclusive reach of patentable subject matter. If a claim covers material not found in any of the four statutory categories, that claim falls outside the plainly expressed scope of § 101 even if the subject matter is otherwise new and useful. ” This quote emphasizes the importance of ensuring that a claimed invention falls within at least one of these categories to be considered patent-eligible subject matter. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Four Categories of Patentable Inventions MPEP 2106.03 Invention Must Be One of Four Statutory Categories MPEP 2106 Required Patentable Subject Matter Must Fall Within Four Categories MPEP 2106.03 Invention Must Be One of Four Statutory Categories MPEP 2106 Utility Not a Test for Patent Eligibility MPEP 2106 Recommended Invention Must Be One of Four Statutory Categories MPEP 2106 Claims Outside Statutory Categories Not Eligible MPEP 2106.03 Flowchart for Patent Eligibility Evaluation MPEP 2106 Permitted Requirement for Claim to Fall Within Statutory Categories MPEP 2106 Claim Not Within Statutory Categories Requires Rejection Under 35 U.S.C. 101 MPEP 2106.03 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What constitutes a &#8220;composition of matter&#8221; in patent law? What is the definition of a &#8220;machine&#8221; in patent law? How is &#8220;manufacture&#8221; defined for patent eligibility purposes? What are the four categories of statutory subject matter in patent law? Wha...