How to Cite a Patent in OSCOLA (4th Edition)

This guide explains how to format a patent citation in OSCOLA (4th Edition). Follow the format template below, refer to the real example, and use the step-by-step instructions to build your citation correctly.

Format Template

The general pattern for citing a patent in OSCOLA (4th Edition):

Template

Inventor, 'Title' (Patent No, Year)

In-Text Citation Example

How the citation appears within the body of your paper:

In-text citation

See footnote 13 (superscript in text).

Reference List Entry Example

The full citation as it appears in your reference list:

Reference list entry

Lisa K Johnson, 'System and Method for Adaptive Neural Network Training' (US Patent No 11345678, 2022)

Step-by-Step Guide

1
Write the inventor name
Use the full name (first name then surname). Do not use initials or abbreviations.
2
Write the patent title
Place the title in single quotation marks. Do not italicise.
3
Add the country
In parentheses, write the country abbreviation (e.g., US, UK, EP).
4
Include the patent number
Write 'Patent No' followed by the patent number.
5
Add the date of grant
In parentheses, write the date of grant in Day Month Year format. No full stop at the end.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Adding a full stop at the end of the citation.
Using initials instead of full first names.
Omitting the country designation.
Using the filing date instead of the grant date.
Placing the patent number in the wrong position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does OSCOLA have a specific format for patents?

OSCOLA does not dedicate a specific section to patents. Follow the general approach for non-standard sources, placing identifying information clearly and consistently.

Should I use the filing date or grant date?

Use the grant (issue) date as the primary date. You may include the filing date if it is relevant to your discussion.

How do I cite a European Patent in OSCOLA?

Use the same format with (EP) as the country: Inventor, 'Title' (EP) Patent No 1234567 (Date).

Information You Will Need

Before creating your citation, gather the following information from your patent:

Inventor
Title
Patent Number
Country
Filing Date
Issue Date

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Step-by-Step Guide

Write the inventor name

Use the full name (first name then surname). Do not use initials or abbreviations.

Write the patent title

Place the title in single quotation marks. Do not italicise.

Add the country

In parentheses, write the country abbreviation (e.g., US, UK, EP).

Include the patent number

Write 'Patent No' followed by the patent number.

Add the date of grant

In parentheses, write the date of grant in Day Month Year format. No full stop at the end.