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Step 1
Determine whether you can patent your invention idea. An idea can be patentable if it is useful, nonobvious and novel. In other words, it must have some utility and can't exist in the marketplace currently.
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Step 2
Determine what type of patent you need. There are three kinds of patents: utility, plant and design patents. A utility, which covers things such as machines and computer devices, is the most common. Design patents are easier to acquire, but have limited power for the inventor. Plant patents are mainly used to cover intellectual property regarding plant hybridization.
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Step 3
Research your invention idea thoroughly. To make sure your invention doesn't exist, search for the product on the Internet by using keywords that describe your idea. Search for patents similar to your idea at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website.
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Step 4
Pull together detailed information about what your idea is and how it works. Whether you decide to put together your own patent application or seek the help of a patent attorney, this invention summary will serve as the heart of your patent application.
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Step 5
Document information about inventions that are like your idea in the market. Include why your idea is superior to current products on the market.
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Step 6
Consider affordable alternatives to your patent. A patent is an expensive process, often costing thousands of dollars to achieve and maintain. The USPTO offers affordable alternatives such as a provisional patent and a patent disclosure that can serve as temporary protection for your idea.
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Step 7
Seek legal help. Since the patent application can be complex for new inventors, most first-time inventors choose to hire a patent lawyer to help them. The best place to find reliable patent representation is on the USPTO web site.
