What is a Prototype?

A prototype is an physical example of your invention. You can make your own prototype or you can hire a professional to make it for you. Hiring a professional could be expensive. Many people actually show companies their invention by just presenting a prototype. Let's say you invented a better writing tablet. You could actually show your product made of cardboard, for example. The company understands that it is just that; a prototype. They understand that you don't have the means to show the actual real product. So don't worry so much about that. If your home made prototype works, they would be quite impressed with that.