What is the first required element for a patent application according to USPTO standards?

The first required element for a patent application according to USPTO standards is a signed declaration from all inventors. This declaration serves as a formal statement asserting that the individuals named as inventors actually contributed to the invention as defined in the patent application. It's crucial for establishing legal ownership and determining who has the rights to the patent. The signed declaration must also affirm that the inventors believe themselves to be the original inventors of the claimed invention.

While detailed drawings, a marketing plan, or evidence of prior art can be important parts of a patent application, they are not mandatory elements at the outset. Detailed drawings may be necessary for complex inventions and can help illustrate the invention, but they are not required for the filing of all applications. A marketing plan might help in the commercialization of the invention but does not factor into the patentability process itself. Similarly, evidence of prior art may be useful during the examination phase of the application but is not part of the initial filing requirements. Thus, the signed declaration stands as the critical initial document needed for a complete patent application submission.