Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind such as inventions, artistic works, and symbols. There are four main ways to protect intellectual property: patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Patents protect inventions and utility processes, designs, and plant varieties. Trademarks protect words, names, symbols, or designs that distinguish goods and services. Copyrights protect original works of authorship such as writing, art, music, and film. Trade secrets are confidential information that companies keep private to maintain a competitive advantage.