What is the Index of Claims and how should it be maintained?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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 Index of Claims is a tool used in patent examination to track the status and history of claims. MPEP 707.07(i) instructs: The Index of Claims should be kept up to date as set forth in MPEP § 719.04. This means that patent examiners should regularly update the Index of Claims to reflect any changes in claim status or amendments. For detailed instructions on maintaining the Index of Claims, examiners and interested parties should refer to MPEP 719.04 . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Index of Claims Must Be Updated MPEP 707.07(i) Recommended Rejection of Claims Must Cite Best References MPEP 707 Required Rejection of Claims for Pre-2004 Patents MPEP 707 Required Index of Claims Must Be Updated After Each Office Action MPEP 719.04 Recommended Form Paragraphs Must Conclude Actions MPEP 707 Recommended Notations Required for Priority Claims MPEP 719 Claims After Restriction/Election Must Follow MPEP MPEP 707.07(i) Recommended Examiner Must Address Each Version Separately in Office Action MPEP 707.07(i) Each Claim Must Be Mentioned and Treated in Office Action MPEP 707.07(i) Recommended Claims Must Retain Original Numerals Throughout Prosecution MPEP 707.07(i) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How should patent examiners handle claims in each Office action? How are claims handled after a restriction requirement or election of species? What is the purpose of maintaining claim numbers throughout patent prosecution? What is Form PTO-326 and how is it used in patent examination? How should examiners handle multiple dependent claims in patent applications?