The foremost is to successfully come with an invention that is unique and new that actually qualifies to get a patent. If you have already something that is comparable, then filling to get a patent would have been a total waste of time. In order to save yourself time, look at the database around the USPTO website and see if your idea continues to be thought about before and is also already legally covered. Whether it has not been covered yet, begin together with your invention.
When creating your invention, make sure you take notes and work from drawings. It's always best to perform the drawings yourself. If you outsource your idea with a inexpensive draftsman, then you will need to prove the idea was yours if the draftsman beat you to the filing application for that invention.
Your invention can be an step up from an existing creation that has commercial value. It is really an important concept to consider. In case your invention is not going to help the public, a patent will not be awarded.
When submitting the patent, you will find services that will help you for a price. It is possible to work with a lawyer which almost always are more expensive, or do it yourself. The benefit of having a lawyer is the process following the application is submitted. Nearly all are rejected by the USPTO upon their first submission and will need alterations in the application form for your submission to be reviewed again. Lawyers specialize in this area and can speed up this area of the process.
Keep in mind, finding a patent just isn't necessarily easy just because you have a great invention, politics are participating because the US government is involved.