A provisional patent is a way to protect your idea while you're still developing it. It's a less expensive and less formal option than a non-provisional patent, but it also provides less protection.

To file a provisional patent, you'll need to submit the following to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO):

* A cover sheet

* A description of your invention

* Drawings or photographs of your invention

* A filing fee of $65

Your provisional patent will be effective for one year from the date you file it. During that time, you can work on developing your invention and decide whether you want to file a non-provisional patent. If you do decide to file a non-provisional patent, you'll need to do so before your provisional patent expires.

Provisional patents can be a helpful way to protect your ideas, but it's important to understand the limitations of this type of patent before you file one.