1. Overview 

Part A of the Guidelines deals with:

(i)the requirements and procedures to be followed in the various aspects of the formalities examination of European patent applications (chapters A‑II to A-VI)

(ii)formalities matters of a more general nature that can arise during the application procedure or post-grant stage (chapters A‑VII and A-VIII)

(iii)the presentation and execution of drawings and figurative representations accompanying a European patent application (chapter A‑IX)

(iv)fee matters (chapter A‑X)

(v)inspection of files, communication of information contained in files, consultation of the European Patent Register and issue of certified copies (chapter A‑XI).