What is the purpose of the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP)?

The Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) serves as a comprehensive guide for patent examiners, applicants, attorneys, and agents involved in the patent application process. According to MPEP 101, its purpose is to:

• Provide instructions to examiners for the examination of patent applications
• Outline procedures for processing and examining patent applications
• Serve as a reference work on patent laws, rules, and examination practices

The MPEP states: The Manual contains instructions to examiners, as well as other material in the nature of information and interpretation, and outlines the current procedures which the examiners are required or authorized to follow in appropriate cases in the normal examination of a patent application.

For more information on patent examination, visit: patent examination.

For more information on USPTO Guidelines, visit: USPTO Guidelines.