What components are included in the "written description" of a patent?

The "written description" of a patent primarily consists of the specification and the accompanying drawings. The specification is a detailed, written explanation of the invention, including how to make and use it, and it must fully describe the invention to fulfill the requirements of the patent laws. This is essential for enabling someone skilled in the art to replicate the invention without undue experimentation. The drawings, when required, visually complement the written description by illustrating the invention, which can help clarify more complex elements.

Including both components aligns with the legal necessity for a patent application to sufficiently disclose the invention to the public. This transparency is crucial for the progress of science and technology, as it allows others to learn from and build upon patented inventions.

Other options suggest elements like claims and abstracts, summaries, or definitions, but these are typically ancillary to the core requirements for a written description rather than foundational components of the written description itself. Claims outline the scope of protection sought, while abstracts offer a brief overview. Definitions may provide context but are not core elements of the written description as outlined in patent law.