What is the correct way to cite an A.P.C. published application?

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 MPEP provides a specific format for citing A.P.C. published applications. The correct citation format is as follows:

A.P.C. Application of [Inventor Name], Ser. No. [Serial Number], Published [Publication Date]

This format ensures that the document is properly identified as an A.P.C. published application rather than a patent, and includes all necessary information for reference.