Copyright protects original works of authorship that are fixed in a tangible form of expression. Copyrighted works include the following categories:
- Architectural works
- Sound recordings
- Pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works
- Pantomimes and choreographic works
- Dramatic works, including any accompanying music
- Musical works, including any accompanying words
- Literary works (also includes computer software)
What is not protected by copyright?
- Works that you have not fixed in tangible form.
- Titles, names, short phrases, and slogans; familiar symbols or designs; mere listings of ingredients or contents.
- Ideas, procedures, methods, systems, processes, concepts, principles, discoveries, or devices. (Some of these are patented. Go to the Patent tab in the left navigation column for more information.)
- Works consisting entirely of information that is common property and containing no original authorship.
