Required length: 5 to 6 pages total (i.e. approximately 1,250 to 1,500 words), not including references and appendix. Use Times New Roman (font 12) and double spacing.

Format the assignment using MLA style (see https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/01/). Make sure to properly reference all sources you are using.

Assignment:

Patents are necessary to protect the intellectual property (IP) rights of inventors, but there are also numerous ways in which they may obstruct productivity, creativity, and economic growth.
Research and select at least three (3) different software patents examples to help explain and discuss both the usefulness and the harmfulness of patents. Find and reference appropriate secondary materials to support your arguments.

Notes:

1) You must use at least five scholarly/reputable sources to help support your arguments.