MPEP Section 902.02(a), Definition Notes

Executive summary:

This document contains Section 902.02(a) ("Definition Notes ") of the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (the "M.P.E.P."), Eighth Edition, Eighth Revision (July 2010). This page was last updated in January 2011. You may return to the section index to find a particular section. Alternatively, you may search the MPEP using the search box that appears on the left side of every page of BitLaw--you may restrict your search to the MPEP on the search results page.

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902.02(a) Definition Notes [R-5]

Many of the definitions have accompanying notes. These notes are of two types: (A) notes that supplement definitions by explaining terms or giving examples, and (B) notes referring to related disclosures located in other classes or subclasses.

*>The< latter notes are termed "See or Search" notes and are helpful in explaining the limits of a class or subclass. They generally state the relationship to, and difference from, other identified subject matter collections. **>Each "See or Search" note helps< a user reach a decision either to include or exclude an area containing relevant subject matter.

Search notes are not exhaustive and **>do not limit the search but suggest< additional fields of search **. Additionally, since a search note *>that< applies to a particular subclass is rarely repeated for subclasses indented thereunder, it is advisable to review the search notes of all parent subclasses.

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