I want to know how to copyright things?

Question

like if you write something like a story, how do you make sure that nobody steals your idea?

Answer 1

It is not possible to protect ideas but rather the representation of that idea.

You can do this at the US Copyright Office – see the last 2 links in the source box. The application is fairly simple & the cost is $45 per application.

Despite what others state, a "poor man's" copyright is NOT the same as registering it. Here's what the US Copyright Office has to say:

"The practice of sending a copy of your own work to yourself is sometimes called a 'poor man’s copyright.' There is no provision in the copyright law regarding any such type of protection, and it is not a substitute for registration."

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 2

Copyrights don't "make sure nobody steals your idea." You have to have the ability to ENFORCE the copyright. So if you don't have the $$$ to fight in court then don't waste money copyrighting or patenting anything.

Answer 3

Actually, as soon as you write your story down, you have a valid copyright in it. A copyright is made as soon as the expression is fixed in a tangible medium (as soon as you write it down or type it up).

You can register your copyright, this gives you certain bonuses if you have to sue someone, but is not necessary to have a copyright.

Answer 4

hard to explain. You basically send a copy into the copyright office, with a fee.

there are some good books in the library that explains exactly how to do it.

Patent's are a bit more complicated.

Answer 5

Generally it is enough to have it read by a few friends (unless you wrote a multimillion dollar script, say). In court you can prove precedence. However your country should have an author's association where you can register copyright.

Answer 6

Judging by your pic, I'm guessing you've written about your abduction and makeover by aliens?

http://www.copyright.gov/

Answer 7

http://www.copyright.gov/