What is the purpose of maintaining claim numbers throughout patent prosecution?

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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 purpose of maintaining original claim numbers throughout patent prosecution is to ensure easy traceability of each claim’s history. According to MPEP 707.07(i) : Since a claim retains its original numeral throughout the prosecution of the application, its history through successive actions is thus easily traceable. This consistent numbering system allows patent examiners, attorneys, and inventors to quickly reference and track changes to specific claims across multiple Office actions. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Each Claim Must Be Mentioned and Treated in Office Action MPEP 707.07(i) Recommended Each Claim Must Be Mentioned and Its Status Summarized in Each Office Action MPEP 707.07(i) Recommended Each Claim Must Be Mentioned in Office Action MPEP 707.07(i) Recommended Examiner’s Action Limited to Specific Matters MPEP 707 Permitted Office Actions for Ex Parte Reexamination MPEP 707 Office Actions for Inter Partes Reexamination MPEP 707 First Office Action Requires Informal Patent Application Notice MPEP 707 Response to Office Actions Requires Specific Information MPEP 707 Recommended Office Action Includes Disclosures and Allowable Subject Matter MPEP 707 Permitted First Office Action Summary Required MPEP 707 Permitted 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 Form PTO-326 and how is it used in patent examination? How should examiners handle multiple dependent claims in patent applications? What is the Index of Claims and how should it be maintained?