What are the main requirements for claims in a PCT application?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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 main requirements for claims in a PCT application are outlined in MPEP 1824 and include: Claims must define the matter for which protection is sought Claims should be clear and concise Claims must be fully supported by the description The number of claims should be reasonable considering the nature of the invention As stated in the MPEP, “ The claim or claims must ‘define the matter for which protection is sought.’ Claims must be clear and concise. They must be fully supported by the description. “ Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Claims Must Be Clear and Concise MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Be Clear and Concise MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Be Fully Supported by Description MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Be Reasonable Considering Invention Nature MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Be Reasonable Considering Invention Nature MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Be Reasonable Considering Invention Nature MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Define Invention MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Define Protected Invention MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Be Supported By Description MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Match Description MPEP 1824 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How can claims be amended in a PCT application? How should claims be numbered in a PCT application? Can claims in a PCT application refer to the description or drawings? What is the recommended structure for claims in a PCT application? How should dependent claims be formatted in a PCT application?