Q: What are the common mistakes the independent inventors intend to make when they file a patent application without using patent attorney/agent?

A: First, the most common mistake is not doing your homework by understanding what is needed in an application. Our web site, http://www.uspto.gov/ has a wealth of information. Second, the claims are usually written as what the invention does, how it works or what it is intended to do rather than how it is made. It is important to clearly define what the invention is. Finally, the written descriptions that most often cause trouble are those that don't clearly describe their invention. You can contact our Inventors Assistance Center at 1-800-786-9199 for additional information.