Researchers may need to conduct a patent search for a number of reasons, the most common of which is to verify the patentability of an invention before delving into the patent application process.
Patent searching, however, is complex and difficult. The resources listed under "Guides to Patent Searches" can help you understand why it is necessary to conduct a patent search, what sources should be searched, how to search these sources, and how to evaluate the results of your search. When you are ready to conduct a search, move on to the resources listed under "Patent Searching Databases."
