Which of the following must be included in an Appeal Brief?

The inclusion of a summary of claimed subject matter for each independent claim in an Appeal Brief is critical as it helps to articulate the precise scope of the claims being appealed. This summary provides the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences with the necessary context to understand the claims in question and the reasoning behind the appeal. This clarity is essential for making an informed decision regarding the patentability of the claims.

By outlining the essence of each independent claim, the applicant effectively sets the stage for the arguments that will follow in the appeal, addressing the specific points of contention raised during the examination process. This structure also aids in maintaining the focus of the appeal on the critical elements that distinguish the invention from the cited references or rejections made by the examiner.

While related patents, signatures, and new evidence may be relevant in other contexts, they do not hold the same weight in fulfilling the specific requirements of an Appeal Brief. The emphasized inclusion of the summary directly supports the appeal process and aligns with the guidelines set forth in the MPEP, ensuring that the applicant's position is clearly articulated for the decision-making body.