This text is a resource for patent engineers and scientists to learn the skills, tools, and systems for identifying, recording and managing the process of creating intellectual property. The focus of this text is on optimizing the financial return on patent applications in a rapidly-changing global landscape. Harvesting the work of innovators is the first and essential step in creating valuable patents. Human knowledge must be recorded accurately and systematically for it to become a strong asset and further made into INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY by complying with the laws of the country in which it resides. This text covers patent basics, current best practices in defining and capturing inventions, documentation, best practices in patent prosecution strategy and tactics, and the management of a patent strategy.