When it comes time to file a patent, four significant mistakes are commonly made. These pitfalls can be easily sidestepped, however, with a little forewarning.

1. Vague Intentions

Most of the times, while submitting the draft as a part of the application procedure for patents, people are not very specific what they are trying to achieve through this invention or discovery. They are not able to clearly specify the objective of their findings. A person going through the draft should be able to clearly find out the need for this invention or discovery and appreciate the social or business purpose

2. Insufficient Specifications

Make use of drawings and diagrams in the creation of the product draft. This is the best preparation for eventual consult with a patent attorney, and it’s a potential cost-saver, too. The greater your preparation for that initial meeting, the less you’ll shell out for those pricey legal services. Also, it pays to examine the marketplace. Do some research to determine if an idea similar to yours already exists.

3. Piracy

People often make the mistake of submitting patents for a product, which already exists in the market place. One should sufficient online and offline searching to make sure that the product for which they are seeking patent is completely unique and doesn’t exist in the marketplace. Also, one could look at the trade journals containing information regarding the products of similar kind. After making sure that there is not product in the category, one could go ahead with the patent process. So, one has to be careful regarding the timing of the publicity.

Number 4 – Starting the promotions too soon

The 4th and the last mistake relates to the promotional activities involved with the created product. One should be able to complete the patent process within 12 months of promoting the product. If they are not able to complete the patent process within 12 months, then it becomes null and void.

One should have a clear cut objective and should not make public their product too much in advance. Though one has the tendency to speak about their product too soon.

It’s a challenge, sometimes, to keep that brilliant invention a secret, but it’s the best favor a future filer can do for themselves. Focusing on all of these tips are the surest to improve one’s chances for success, with this patent and the next!

Mike Tung is an active member of the US Patent Bar. With a specialty in high tech patent prosecution, he has worked with Fortune 100 corporations and start-ups. As a top contributor for www.howtopatenttheidea.com, a leading resource on filing patents, he shares his advice and stories to help others. Visit How to Patent The Idea today!

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