When a Provisional Makes Sense

• You can describe how to build and use the invention (materials, parts, connections, steps, parameters).
• The core concept is stable, but dimensions, materials, or software logic may still evolve.
• You want “patent pending” status for fundraising, supplier talks, pilots, or early launches while you refine.

What to Include (the “4+1” Rule)

1. Problem & Solution (plain English). What pain exists and how your idea solves it.
2. How It Works. Parts, signals, subsystems, UI flows, manufacturing steps, algorithms—link each piece to a function.
3. Diagrams/Flows. Block diagrams, exploded views, wiring, flowcharts, UI screens. Label parts consistently (e.g., 102, 104…).
4. Build & Use. Materials, ranges (e.g., “0.5–1.2 mm”), tolerances, recipes, firmware steps—enough for a skilled person to reproduce.
5. Alternatives & Variations. All other ways you might implement it: substitute materials, optional modules, cloud vs. edge, ML vs. heuristics, left-hand vs. right-hand assemblies, etc.

Mini-Template You Can Copy

Step-by-Step: From Idea to Filed Provisional

1) Quick Prior-Art Pulse Check (1–2 hours)

• Search obvious keywords, competitor names, and “how would a rival do this?” alternatives. Capture links and notes.
• Goal is orientation, not perfection: if you’re uncertain, a formal patentability search is worth it.

2) Draft Your Disclosure

• Write in present tense, label parts with reference numerals, and keep terminology consistent.
• Use ranges and options (“between 5–20%”, “may be implemented via…”). This broadens later claim possibilities.

3) Create Figures

• Block diagrams and flowcharts are perfect for software and systems. Hand sketches are fine if clear.
• Number your figures and call out each element in the text (e.g., “as shown in Fig. 2, the retainer 214…”).

4) Add Variations Aggressively

• Write every version you’d consider trying in the next 6–12 months. Future-proof yourself.
• Cover the “obvious pivots” a fast follower would make (material swaps, cloud/local, sensor alternatives).

5) Prepare to File

• Compile a single PDF (spec + drawings). Name files clearly. Prepare a Provisional Cover Sheet (Patent Center wizard works).
• Confirm your entity status (micro/small/large). Fees change, but micro-entity PPAs are low and budget-friendly.

6) File in USPTO Patent Center

• Create/login to a USPTO account. Start a new Provisional Application, upload your PDF, attach the cover sheet, pay fees, and submit.
• You’re patent pending immediately after successful submission. Save your receipt and application number.

What Happens After You File?

• Confidentiality: Provisionals are never published; they’re kept confidential by the USPTO.
• 12-Month Clock: You must file a non-provisional (utility) within 12 months to keep the priority date.
• Refine & Test: Use the year to run pilots, improve performance, and decide which embodiments deserve utility claims.

Common Mistakes (Please Avoid These)

• Too thin on details. If someone skilled in the art can’t build it from your write-up, that subject matter isn’t protected.
• No alternatives. Filing a single, narrow version invites design-around.
• Missing the 12-month conversion. Set reminders now; losing your date can be fatal.
• Thinking “pending” = protection. You can’t enforce until a patent is granted; “pending” is a warning sign, not a shield.

FAQ

Do I need a prototype first?

No. A well-written specification with clear drawings is enough—prototypes are helpful for testing, not required for filing.

Can I include multiple inventions?

You can disclose multiple embodiments and approaches in one provisional; later you’ll choose the best claim paths in your utility filing.

How much does it cost?

USPTO fees are modest for micro entities. My flat-fee packages and hourly rates are published, and I’ll scope work before we start.

Copy-Ready Filing Checklist

• ✔️ Plain-English problem/solution summary
• ✔️ System overview + labeled components
• ✔️ Detailed “build & use” (mechanical/electrical/software)
• ✔️ Figures with consistent numbering
• ✔️ Alternatives (materials, methods, architectures, ranges)
• ✔️ Provisional Cover Sheet prepared
• ✔️ Single PDF export ready (spec + figures)
• ✔️ Entity status determined (micro/small/large)
• ✔️ Patent Center submission + receipt saved
• ✔️ 12-month conversion reminders scheduled