Inventions & Patents (2026)

If inventions patents is on your radar, this short guide cuts through the noise. Here is what is worth knowing, and how to put it to work today.

Key Takeaways

• Advertisement Recommended Books:   Patent It Yourself - by David Pressman  Inventing and Patenting Sourcebook - by...
• Patent and Trademark Office - Complete information on patents and the patent process.
• What to remember:   Most ripoff invention services use a three-step program to steal money.

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Recommended Books:  

• Patent It Yourself - by David Pressman 
• Inventing and Patenting Sourcebook - by Richard Levy 
• The Complete Idiot’s Guide To Cashing In on Your Inventions - by Richard Levy​

Web sites:  

• U.S. Patent and Trademark Office - Complete information on patents and the patent process.

What to remember:  

• Most ripoff invention services use a three-step program to steal money. They offer a free evaluation of the inventor’s product through an 800-number, take $500 or so to fund ‘research,’ and later request another $5,000 to $6,000 for more extensive ‘market research.’ 
• One such company was forced to disclose that less than one percent of the ideas people submit ever make it to market. 
• Turn to the local bookstore or library for legitimate advice on how to bring inventions to market. 
• It’s key to create a working prototype of your idea, because companies won’t purchase ideas from sketches. 
• Your best bet is to find an invention broker to propose your idea to a company. 
• Non-profit inventors clubs, which can be found in numerous cities, also are excellent for sharing ideas and providing encouragement.

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Final Thoughts

Before you check out, double-check inventions patents against current offers and any coupons you can stack. Small habits like this add up to real savings over a year.

Originally published at clark.com.