A provisional patent is a way for you to reserve your ownership of your incomplete invention. Suppose you are creating an engine powered by a unique type of fuel. It’s a novel idea, something that many people might be interested in. Therefore, you need to find a way to ensure that your idea is reserved under your ownership until the invention is complete and you can get complete patent registration. A provisional patent registration gives you a “provisional” protection that ensures that your invention idea is protected for 1 year before filing complete patent registration.