Updated version of the Cross-Referenced PCT available

Please note that the 2010 edition of the book “The Cross-Referenced Patent Cooperation Treaty” has been issued. The new edition of the book has been updated taking account of the amendments of the “Regulations under the PCT” on 1 July 2010.

In the 2010-edition all references to the PCT Applicant’s Guide – International phase and the PCT Applicant’s Guide – National Phase have been renumbered in keeping with the re-structuring of the Guide by the International Bureau.

The 2010 edition of the “X-Ref PCT” is the one needed if you are preparing for the European Qualifying Examination (EQE) to be held in March 2011.

The new edition of the “X-Ref PCT” also provides reference to the Articles and Implementing Regulations of the EPC [1 April 2010], the Rules relating to Fees [1 July 2010] and to the new edition of the “Guidelines for Examination in the EPO” [April 2010] in as far as relevant for the PCT. As of 1 July 2010, the EPO will start acting as Authority competent to carry out Supplementary International Searches (SISA).


In addition, all references and appendices have been updated in the new edition.


Click here to go to the website.


Learning the PCT is not an easy thing to do. A possible (yet probably not the ultimate) way is to read the chapters on the PCT in Visser using the X-Ref PCT to actually read the articles and rules whereas you make further annotations and/or notes at the same time (both in Visser as in the X Ref PCT). Likewise it is advisable to get to know the Applicant's Guide. Learn how it's organised and learn how to use the index.

If you read through the Visser part at least once it is then also a good idea to take a look at the PCT forms  and to read/check the Articles and Rules that apply to each box in each form. Ask yourself questions like "what would happen if I tick/ untick this box", "why is this box here in the firt place", "if I make a mistake, what would happen, what would be the remedy and what do I need to do". I only found out the usefulness of doing this after having read through the part in Visser at least twice, but can really recommend doing it in an early stage. In fact doing this may even be the start of your "PCT experience".

The same basically goes for the practical advices that are published in the PCT Newsletter. Use the X-Ref PCT to follow the explanations on the subjects you find in these advices. Making notes and further annotations will help you in understanding how it all works.

Hope this helps a bit ...