Although it does not have the force of rule or law, the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (“M.P.E.P.”) is the guiding document for patent examiners. As such, it is a fundamental tool for patent prosecutors trying to guide patent applications through the prosecution process to issuance. Not only does it shed light on the USPTO’s approach and policy towards patentability topics, it also can provide a persuasive foundation for your patentability arguments.