What is included in a patent application publication?

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.

A patent application publication typically includes:

• A front page with information similar to that on a patent front page
• Drawings (if any)
• The specification (including claims)

The publication is generally based on:

• Patent application papers and drawings filed on the application filing date
• The executed oath or declaration and/or application data sheet (for applications filed on or after September 16, 2012)
• Subsequently filed application papers and drawings submitted in response to pre-examination notices

As stated in MPEP 1121: “A patent application publication includes a front page containing information similar to that contained on the front page of a patent, the drawings (if any), and the specification (including claims).”