How to Patent an Idea: From Concept to Patent Pending

You cannot patent a bare idea, but you can patent an invention: a concrete, described way of making that idea work. The trick is turning your concept into a description detailed enough for someone skilled in the field to reproduce it.

What is patentable

Processes, machines, manufactured articles and compositions of matter can be patented if they are new, useful and non-obvious. Abstract ideas, laws of nature and pure mathematics cannot.

Turn the idea into an invention

Write down the problem, your solution, each part, how it works and alternatives. Sketch it. Build a prototype if you can, but it is not required to file.

Check if it already exists

Run a prior-art search on Google Patents and the USPTO database before spending money. Our SI Patent Search gives you keywords and categories to start.

File a provisional application

Once documented, file a provisional to secure your date. With GetQuickPatent you describe your idea in one paragraph and receive a full draft.