Instructions for individual inventors, not represented by counsel, to fill out the Provisional Patent Application Cover Sheet Follow the example Cover Sheet attached. Moving the cursor over a text box will provide an explanation. The fields with a number in parenthesis are further explained below under the respective number: (1) Enter the number of sheets listing additional inventors. Enter 0 if no additional inventors and rarely more than 1 additional page to list the additional inventors. (2) This option is only used if you have an account with the USPTO, in which case you enter the account number in this box and place a check mark on the small box to the left by clicking on it. Patent law firms typically use this option because they correspond often with the USPTO. (3) This provision applies to applications with thousands of pages which would be impractical to mail to the USPTO. For most other cases leave blank. (4) This provision applies to tables, addendums, etc. Unless it is applicable for your case leave blank. (5) This is for patent law firms who may have a Deposit Account with the USPTO. (6) Enter the Name of the Government agency and the contract number as stated, if applicable. (7) This provision applies to law firms who by law must have a registration number. For your case, as an individual inventor not represented by counsel, leave blank. (8) The Docket Number is a number you create to be used as a reference for your patent. A common format is JSMITH.003A. It consists of your initial and last name. Then a period. Then a 3 digit sequential number starting at 001 for each of your consecutive patents. Finally a single capital letter starting at A for the initial filling and first office action response and incrementing to the next letter in the alphabet for each response to a subsequent office action. (9) On the additional page enter 2 for the first supplemental page, 3 for the second, etc. (10) On the additional page enter the number of supplemental pages plus one for the cover page Note: An application data sheet is a sheet or sheets, that may be voluntarily submitted in either provisional or nonprovisional applications, which contains bibliographic data arranged in a format specified by the USPTO. If an application data sheet is provided, the application data sheet is part of the provisional or nonprovisional application for which it has been submitted.
Return Postcard: It is recommended that you include a self addressed and stamped post card with your provisional patent application. The USPTO will apply a sticker to the postcard with the assigned provisional application number and the mailing date of your Express Mail and will return it to you as confirmation of receipt. The back of the postcard should contain the information shown on the template provided.