When conducting a patent search, it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes that can lead to incomplete or inaccurate results. One frequent error is failing to use a variety of search terms and synonyms, which can result in missing relevant patents. Additionally, overlooking international databases can limit the scope of your search, as patents filed in other countries may not appear in U.S.-centric databases. Another mistake is not reviewing the entire patent document, as important details are often found in the claims section. Lastly, relying solely on automated search tools without human verification can lead to oversight of nuanced patent details. By being aware of these pitfalls, you can improve the accuracy and comprehensiveness of your patent search.