How do I cite a patent in Bluebook?

To cite a patent in Bluebook (21st edition), include the author, title, date, and source location. Use our free citation generator for automatic formatting.

What is the Bluebook format for a patent citation?

The Bluebook format requires specific elements like author, title, date, and source location arranged in a particular order.

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How to Cite a Patent in Bluebook (21st edition)

Learn how to cite a patent or intellectual property filing in Bluebook format (21st edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

Bluebook Bibliography Format

Here is the standard Bluebook format for citing a patent in your bibliography:

Follow the standard Bluebook template for this source type.

Step-by-Step Guide

Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your patent.
Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the Bluebook (21st edition) template shown above.
Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
Add to your bibliography: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match Bluebook requirements.

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Cite a Patent in Other Styles

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Cite Other Sources in Bluebook

Website in Bluebook Book in Bluebook Journal Article in Bluebook YouTube Video in Bluebook Podcast in Bluebook Newspaper Article in Bluebook PDF in Bluebook Interview in Bluebook Social Media Post in Bluebook Government Document in Bluebook Dissertation or Thesis in Bluebook Conference Paper in Bluebook Lecture or PowerPoint in Bluebook Image or Photograph in Bluebook Movie or Film in Bluebook TV Show in Bluebook Song or Music in Bluebook Court Case in Bluebook Encyclopedia Entry in Bluebook Dictionary Entry in Bluebook Dataset in Bluebook Software or App in Bluebook Press Release in Bluebook Report in Bluebook