Patents are explained in this clear guide to every step of the patenting process.

Do you have a great idea for a product? Do you toil away in an office, garage or basement lab day by day in the hopes of bringing a new widget to life? What will you do when it's alive and kicking?

Here's the primer every first-time inventor needs. Packed with detailed information and concise explanations, Nolo's Patents for Beginners defines what a patent is and what it can do for you. Step by step, it explains how to:

• use basic patent principles
• document an invention
• conduct a patent search
• acquire patent rights
• "read" an application
• determine patent ownership
• analyze disputes
• find patent information
• interpret international patent law

Nolo's Patents for Beginners provides sample forms and letters, resources and a glossary of terms. The 6th edition is completely revised to cover all changes in patent case law and updated regulations for inventors applying for a patent.