This page provides information on the types of patents and types of patent applications, and the examination process. Patent law states that inventions may be patented if they have been reduced to practice, even if a physical embodiment of the invention has not been realized.Before you visit a Patent Attorney, write a description of your idea, and provide as many details as possible. We're going to SLO through a three-step process of how to review a patent application when you end up with a document in your hands. An applicant may apply for a patent in three major categories: (1) Utility Patents, (2) Design Patents, and (3) Plant Patents. If your idea is truly new, you'll need to fill out a hard copy or online application. Typically, black and white line drawings support a design patent application. A provisional application is easy to file and can cover many different innovations before you even build your invention. In a first to file world you want to have a filing date as soon after your conception of the invention as possible.