What is the recommended structure for claims in a PCT application?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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 recommended structure for claims in a PCT application, as outlined in MPEP 1824 , includes: A statement of technical features that are part of the prior art A characterizing portion stating the features for which protection is sought The MPEP cites PCT Rule 6.3 , which states: “ Whenever appropriate, claims shall contain: (i) a statement indicating those technical features of the invention which are necessary for the definition of the claimed subject matter but which, in combination, are part of the prior art, (ii) a characterizing portion – preceded by the words ‘characterized in that,’ ‘characterized by,’ ‘wherein the improvement comprises,’ or any other words to the same effect – stating concisely the technical features which, in combination with the features stated under (i), it is desired to protect. “ Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Characterizing Portion Must State Technical Features MPEP 1824 Claims Must Include Prior Art and Invention Features MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Include Prior Art Features MPEP 1824 Claims Must Be Defined by Technical Features MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Separate Prior Art from Characterizing Features MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Follow Technical Features with Reference Signs MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Define Invention MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Define Protected Invention MPEP 1824 Required Claims Must Be Reasonable Considering Invention Nature MPEP 1824 Required No Basis for Multiple Dependent Claims MPEP 1824 Prohibited Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How can claims be amended in a PCT application? How should claims be numbered in a PCT application? Can claims in a PCT application refer t...