Can you copyright a creative idea?

Copyrights don't have to be registered. They are automatic upon the creation of a work. Yes, you can register them if you want additional protections, like getting statutory damages in addition to actual damages (in the United States). But you can easily sue without registration. read more

You cannot copyright the idea of a superhero. You can copyright the code and design elements that go into a software program or website. You cannot copyright the idea of what that program or website does. You can copyright the lyrics and musical arrangement of a song about lost love. You cannot copyright the idea of a song about lost love. read more

You cannot copyright an idea, you cannot trademark an idea, nor can you patent an idea. You can only in the way you carry it out — the expression of it. To a screen writer that means writing. read more

In the US, you have to take an idea to the next level in order for it to be eligible for a copyright. Basically, you have to implement it in some way. If you have a great idea, make it something that can be seen, felt or heard. read more