How to Read a Patent Without a Law Degree Patents look intimidating, but you can learn a lot from one in minutes. Start with the abstract and drawings for the plain-language idea, then jump to the claims near the end, since those numbered sentences define what the patent actually protects. Check the filing and issue dates too, and use free tools like Google Patents to search by keyword and follow citations to related patents. Reading patents also helps you prepare your own application. If you’re in Illinois and want help drafting one, the Patent attorney chicago il this page https://sherinianlaw.net/patent-attorney-chicago-il/ on the Sherinian Law site describes the firm’s patent services and meeting options. Bring notes on how your invention works and the dates of any public disclosures. This post is general information, not legal advice.