Free Provisional Patent Application Template: Easy Guide for Beginners
Have a brilliant invention idea but are unsure how to secure it? Don’t worry — you are not alone! Applying for a full patent is complicated and costly, particularly for newcomers. That’s why inventors often begin with a provisional patent application. It’s quicker, less expensive, and gives you time to refine your idea while keeping it under wraps.
In this guide, we have included a free provisional patent application template, easy examples, and easy-to-follow steps for you to write your application, even if you don’t have any legal experience. Let’s make patenting your invention a breeze!
✅ What Is a Provisional Patent Application?
A provisional patent application is a fast and inexpensive method of protecting your invention. It allows you to have 12 months to experiment with your concept, raise investors, or refine your product before submitting your final patent (a non-provisional patent).
When you submit a provisional patent, you’re able to use the words “Patent Pending”, which can safeguard your concept from being replicated.
Why Use a Provisional Patent Application?
| Benefit | Why It’s Helpful |
|---|---|
| ✅ Easy to write | No legal claims or fancy format needed |
| ✅ Cheaper | Filing fee is around $60 (if you’re a small inventor) |
| ✅ Protects your idea | Locks your filing date for 12 months |
| ✅ Gives time to improve | You can work on your invention while it’s protected |
Provisional Patent Application Template (Free & Easy)
Here’s a free simple provisional patent application template you can replicate and use. You don’t require a lawyer to draft it — just describe your invention plainly.
TEMPLATE BEGINS BELOW:
Title of the Invention: Short name of your invention. (Example: “Automatic Plant Watering Device”)
Inventor Name(s): Your full legal name.
1. Field of the Invention
Describe what kind of invention it is.
Example: This invention pertains to home gardening tools.
2. Background
Explain the problem your invention fixes.
Example: Individuals tend to forget to water plants. This results in dead or overwatered plants.
3. Summary of the Invention
Provide a brief explanation of how your invention operates.
Example: This device automatically waters the plant when the soil dries out with a moisture sensor and tiny pump.
4. Description of Drawings
If you include pictures or drawings, explain them here.
Example:
- Figure 1: Device top view
- Figure 2: Side view of sensor and water tank
5. Detailed Description
Describe each component of your invention in easy-to-follow steps.
Example: The device consists of a soil moisture sensor wired to a circuit. The pump turns on to water the plant when the soil is dry from a tank. The system uses batteries.
6. Alternative Versions
Explain other possibilities for how your invention might function.
Example: The gadget can be powered by the sun. Instead of a pump, a water system fed by gravity could be used.
7. Real-Life Use Example
Explain how a person would actually use it.
Example: A person installs the gadget in a potted plant. When they go away for a week, the system waters the plant without anyone touching it.
8. Abstract (Short Summary)
Write a short summary of your invention (under 150 words).
Example: An automatic plant watering system that uses a moisture sensor to detect dry soil and activates a pump to water the plant. It’s designed to help people keep their plants healthy with minimal effort.
9. Optional Claim
This is not required for provisional patents, but it helps.
“I claim: An automatic watering system for watering plants when the soil is dry by a moisture sensor and water pump.”
This is a sample provisional patent application template you can use. You can use this as a model to write out your own idea in Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
Provisional Patent Example
Assume that you invented a smart umbrella that closes automatically upon entering.
Here’s a small section of the detailed description:
The umbrella has a motion sensor that triggers when entering a building. There is a motor, small enough to fit in, to draw the umbrella in. The handle also comes with a Bluetooth tracker to avoid loss.”
This is how to write a provisional patent application in a simple and concise manner.
Provisional vs Non-Provisional Patent Application
| Provisional | Non-Provisional |
|---|---|
| Easier to write | Must follow strict format |
| Cheaper (about $60) | More expensive (about $400–$700) |
| Valid for 12 months | Can become a real patent |
| No legal claims needed | Must include legal claims |
Tip: After 12 months, you will need to file a non-provisional patent application in order to maintain your protection.
✍️ How to Write a Patent (Easy Steps)
If you’re curious about how to write a patent, then here are some easy steps:
- Use a straightforward title
- Describe the problem that your invention is solving
- Describe your invention in simple terms
- Add drawings or photos if possible
- List different versions or ideas
- Add a real-life use case
- Write a short summary (abstract)
- Add an optional claim
- Use the USPTO cover sheet (Form SB16)
- File online at the USPTO website
✏️ How to Write a Patent Application: Easy Tips
Want to make your patent application even better? Use these tips:
- Use simple language
- Be very clear
- Don’t worry about perfect grammar — focus on describing your idea
- Include photos or simple hand drawings
- Use numbers to identify parts in your figures
- Don’t omit crucial steps or components
Common Errors to Avoid
| Mistake | How to Fix |
|---|---|
| Too short | Write at least 4-5 pages |
| No drawings | Use photos or simple sketches |
| Vague words | Be specific about how it works |
| Only one version | Add variations and alternatives |
| No cover sheet | Download and fill out USPTO Form SB16 |
Final Thoughts
This guide provided you with a simple, step-by-step provisional patent application template. It had:
- ✅ Step-by-step instructions on writing
- ✅ Real-life examples
- ✅ A free template
- ✅ Clear explanations of each section
You can now write and file your own provisional patent without needing to be an expert.
FAQ’s
Q: Do I have to hire a lawyer to file a provisional patent?
A: No. You can do it yourself with this guide.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: About $60 if you’re a micro- or small-entity.
Q: Where do I file it?
A: On the official USPTO website: https://www.uspto.gov
Q: Is a provisional patent available to the public?
A: No. It remains confidential unless you later file a non-provisional patent.