Practice question: claim interpretation during examination
Answer in brief
This question tests how examiners interpret claims during prosecution. Pick an answer before you open the explanation; the governing rule is in MPEP 2111.
An original practice question written by Wysebridge in the style of the exam. It is not a released USPTO question.
The question
During examination of a pending application, an examiner reads the term "fastener" in claim 1 to cover both screws and adhesives. The specification describes only screws but contains no special definition of "fastener." Which statement best describes the standard the examiner must apply?
- The examiner must limit the claim to screws, the only embodiment described.
- The examiner gives the claim its broadest reasonable interpretation consistent with the specification.
- The examiner applies the same claim construction a federal court applies in infringement litigation.
- The examiner must adopt the narrowest interpretation that preserves validity.
- The examiner may not interpret claims until the applicant submits a claim construction statement.
Answer and explanation
Show the answer
Answer: B. Pending claims receive their broadest reasonable interpretation in light of the specification, as one of ordinary skill would read them. Limitations from the described embodiment are not read into the claim unless the applicant has acted as their own lexicographer or clearly disavowed claim scope. Option C describes the standard courts use for issued patents, not examination.
Where the rule lives
Read MPEP 2111 explained on MPEP.net, then find it in the official MPEP. On test day you will search the same text, so practice locating it yourself.
Sources for this entry
- Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) USPTO
The examination manual the patent bar is tested on; open book during the exam. - Wysebridge — Patent bar exam simulator Wysebridge (publisher of this site)
Timed AM/PM practice modeled on the Prometric test center.
Practical guidance is original editorial content. Company-published figures are the company's own claims and are labeled as such.
Continue this reading path
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Cite or share this entry
Patent Bar Practice Questions. “Practice question: claim interpretation during examination.” Wysebridge Reference. Content reviewed 9 November 2026.
https://patentbarpracticequestions.com/broadest-reasonable-interpretation-question/