3.2.1 Reasoned objections 

For each objection, the search opinion must clearly specify which part of the application is deficient and which EPC requirement is not met, for instance by referring to specific articles or rules. It must also give the reason for the objection where this is not immediately apparent. For example, where a prior-art document is cited but only part of it is relevant, the specific passage relied on should be specified. If the cited prior art shows a lack of novelty or inventive step in the independent claim or claims and there is lack of unity between dependent claims as a result (see F‑V, 7), the applicant is informed of this situation (see H‑IV, 5.2(i)). Substantive matters are normally set out first. The search opinion should be drafted in a way that facilitates later examination of the amended application and, in particular, prevents the need to read it all again in depth (see C‑IV, 2).

In general, all claims are referred to, and all documents cited as "X" or "Y" against certain claims are referred to in the search opinion with a related objection. For dependent claims, it may not always be necessary to give detailed reasoning in the search opinion, but it at least needs to be apparent what the reason for the objection is.