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• How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

Published on October 12, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on November 21, 2023.

A research proposal describes what you will investigate, why it’s important, and how you will conduct your research.

The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements:

Introduction

Literature review.

• Research design

Reference list

While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping you get organized and feel confident in the path forward you choose to take.

Table of contents

Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research proposals.

Academics often have to write research proposals to get funding for their projects. As a student, you might have to write a research proposal as part of a grad school application , or prior to starting your thesis or dissertation .

In addition to helping you figure out what your research can look like, a proposal can also serve to demonstrate why your project is worth pursuing to a funder, educational institution, or supervisor.

Research proposal length

The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.

One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.

Download our research proposal template

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See an example

Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.

• Example research proposal #1: “A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management”
• Example research proposal #2: “Medical Students as Mediators of Change in Tobacco Use”

Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:

• The proposed title of your project
• Your supervisor’s name
• Your institution and department

The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.

Your introduction should:

• Introduce your topic
• Give necessary background and context
• Outline your  problem statement  and research questions

To guide your introduction , include information about:

• Who could have an interest in the topic (e.g., scientists, policymakers)
• How much is already known about the topic
• What is missing from this current knowledge
• What new insights your research will contribute
• Why you believe this research is worth doing

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As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review  shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.

In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:

• Comparing and contrasting the main theories, methods, and debates
• Examining the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches
• Explaining how will you build on, challenge, or synthesize prior scholarship

Following the literature review, restate your main  objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.

To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasize again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.

For example, your results might have implications for:

• Improving best practices
• Informing policymaking decisions
• Strengthening a theory or model
• Challenging popular or scientific beliefs
• Creating a basis for future research

Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .

Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.

Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.

Download our research schedule template

If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.

Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:

• Cost : exactly how much money do you need?
• Justification : why is this cost necessary to complete the research?
• Source : how did you calculate the amount?

To determine your budget, think about:

• Travel costs : do you need to go somewhere to collect your data? How will you get there, and how much time will you need? What will you do there (e.g., interviews, archival research)?
• Materials : do you need access to any tools or technologies?
• Help : do you need to hire any research assistants for the project? What will they do, and how much will you pay them?

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

• Sampling methods
• Simple random sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Likert scales
• Reproducibility

 Statistics

• Null hypothesis
• Statistical power
• Probability distribution
• Effect size
• Poisson distribution

Research bias

• Optimism bias
• Cognitive bias
• Implicit bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Anchoring bias
• Explicit bias

Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .

Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.

I will compare …

A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.

Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.

Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.

The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.

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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Academic Proposals

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This resource introduces the genre of academic proposals and provides strategies for developing effective graduate-level proposals across multiple contexts.

Introduction

An important part of the work completed in academia is sharing our scholarship with others. Such communication takes place when we present at scholarly conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and publish in books. This OWL resource addresses the steps in writing for a variety of academic proposals.

For samples of academic proposals, click here .

Important considerations for the writing process

First and foremost, you need to consider your future audience carefully in order to determine both how specific your topic can be and how much background information you need to provide in your proposal. While some conferences and journals may be subject-specific, most will require you to address an audience that does not conduct research on the same topics as you. Conference proposal reviewers are often drawn from professional organization members or other attendees, while journal proposals are typically reviewed by the editorial staff, so you need to ensure that your proposal is geared toward the knowledge base and expectations of whichever audience will read your work.

Along those lines, you might want to check whether you are basing your research on specific prior research and terminology that requires further explanation. As a rule, always phrase your proposal clearly and specifically, avoid over-the-top phrasing and jargon, but do not negate your own personal writing style in the process.

If you would like to add a quotation to your proposal, you are not required to provide a citation or footnote of the source, although it is generally preferred to mention the author’s name. Always put quotes in quotation marks and take care to limit yourself to at most one or two quotations in the entire proposal text. Furthermore, you should always proofread your proposal carefully and check whether you have integrated details, such as author’s name, the correct number of words, year of publication, etc. correctly.

Methodology is often a key factor in the evaluation of proposals for any academic genre — but most proposals have such a small word limit that writers find it difficult to adequately include methods while also discussing their argument, background for the study, results, and contributions to knowledge. It's important to make sure that you include some information about the methods used in your study, even if it's just a line or two; if your proposal isn't experimental in nature, this space should instead describe the theory, lens, or approach you are taking to arrive at your conclusions.

Reasons proposals fail/common pitfalls

There are common pitfalls that you might need to improve on for future proposals.

The proposal does not reflect your enthusiasm and persuasiveness, which usually goes hand in hand with hastily written, simply worded proposals. Generally, the better your research has been, the more familiar you are with the subject and the more smoothly your proposal will come together.

Similarly, proposing a topic that is too broad can harm your chances of being accepted to a conference. Be sure to have a clear focus in your proposal. Usually, this can be avoided by more advanced research to determine what has already been done, especially if the proposal is judged by an important scholar in the field. Check the names of keynote speakers and other attendees of note to avoid repeating known information or not focusing your proposal.

Your paper might simply have lacked the clear language that proposals should contain. On this linguistic level, your proposal might have sounded repetitious, have had boring wording, or simply displayed carelessness and a lack of proofreading, all of which can be remedied by more revisions. One key tactic for ensuring you have clear language in your proposal is signposting — you can pick up key phrases from the CFP, as well as use language that indicates different sections in academic work (as in IMRAD sections from the organization and structure page in this resource). This way, reviewers can easily follow your proposal and identify its relatedness to work in the field and the CFP.

Conference proposals

Conference proposals are a common genre in graduate school that invite several considerations for writing depending on the conference and requirements of the call for papers.

Beginning the process

Make sure you read the call for papers carefully to consider the deadline and orient your topic of presentation around the buzzwords and themes listed in the document. You should take special note of the deadline and submit prior to that date, as most conferences use online submission systems that will close on a deadline and will not accept further submissions.

If you have previously spoken on or submitted a proposal on the same topic, you should carefully adjust it specifically for this conference or even completely rewrite the proposal based on your changing and evolving research.

The topic you are proposing should be one that you can cover easily within a time frame of approximately fifteen to twenty minutes. You should stick to the required word limit of the conference call. The organizers have to read a large number of proposals, especially in the case of an international or interdisciplinary conference, and will appreciate your brevity.

Structure and components

Conference proposals differ widely across fields and even among individual conferences in a field. Some just request an abstract, which is written similarly to any other abstract you'd write for a journal article or other publication. Some may request abstracts or full papers that fit into pre-existing sessions created by conference organizers. Some request both an abstract and a further description or proposal, usually in cases where the abstract will be published in the conference program and the proposal helps organizers decide which papers they will accept. 

If the conference you are submitting to requires a proposal or description, there are some common elements you'll usually need to include. These are a statement of the problem or topic, a discussion of your approach to the problem/topic, a discussion of findings or expected findings, and a discussion of key takeaways or relevance to audience members. These elements are typically given in this order and loosely follow the IMRAD structure discussed in the organization and structure page in this resource. 

The proportional size of each of these elements in relation to one another tends to vary by the stage of your research and the relationship of your topic to the field of the conference. If your research is very early on, you may spend almost no time on findings, because you don't have them yet. Similarly, if your topic is a regular feature at conferences in your field, you may not need to spend as much time introducing it or explaining its relevance to the field; however, if you are working on a newer topic or bringing in a topic or problem from another discipline, you may need to spend slightly more space explaining it to reviewers. These decisions should usually be based on an analysis of your audience — what information can reviewers be reasonably expected to know, and what will you have to tell them?

Journal Proposals

Most of the time, when you submit an article to a journal for publication, you'll submit a finished manuscript which contains an abstract, the text of the article, the bibliography, any appendices, and author bios. These can be on any topic that relates to the journal's scope of interest, and they are accepted year-round.

Special issues , however, are planned issues of a journal that center around a specific theme, usually a "hot topic" in the field. The editor or guest editors for the special issue will often solicit proposals with a call for papers (CFP) first, accept a certain number of proposals for further development into article manuscripts, and then accept the final articles for the special issue from that smaller pool. Special issues are typically the only time when you will need to submit a proposal to write a journal article, rather than submitting a completed manuscript.

Journal proposals share many qualities with conference proposals: you need to write for your audience, convey the significance of your work, and condense the various sections of a full study into a small word or page limit. In general, the necessary components of a proposal include:

• Problem or topic statement that defines the subject of your work (often includes research questions)
• Background information (think literature review) that indicates the topic's importance in your field as well as indicates that your research adds something to the scholarship on this topic
• Methodology and methods used in the study (and an indication of why these methods are the correct ones for your research questions)
• Results or findings (which can be tentative or preliminary, if the study has not yet been completed)
• Significance and implications of the study (what will readers learn? why should they care?)

This order is a common one because it loosely follows the IMRAD (introduction, methods, results and discussion) structure often used in academic writing; however, it is not the only possible structure or even always the best structure. You may need to move these elements around depending on the expectations in your field, the word or page limit, or the instructions given in the CFP.

Some of the unique considerations of journal proposals are:

• The CFP may ask you for an abstract, a proposal, or both. If you need to write an abstract, look for more information on the abstract page. If you need to write both an abstract and a proposal, make sure to clarify for yourself what the difference is. Usually the proposal needs to include more information about the significance, methods, and/or background of the study than will fit in the abstract, but often the CFP itself will give you some instructions as to what information the editors are wanting in each piece of writing.
• Journal special issue CFPs, like conference CFPs, often include a list of topics or questions that describe the scope of the special issue. These questions or topics are a good starting place for generating a proposal or tying in your research; ensuring that your work is a good fit for the special issue and articulating why that is in the proposal increases your chances of being accepted.
• Special issues are not less valuable or important than regularly scheduled issues; therefore, your proposal needs to show that your work fits and could readily be accepted in any other issue of the journal. This means following some of the same practices you would if you were preparing to submit a manuscript to a journal: reading the journal's author submission guidelines; reading the last several years of the journal to understand the usual topics, organization, and methods; citing pieces from this journal and other closely related journals in your research.

Book Proposals

While the requirements are very similar to those of conference proposals, proposals for a book ought to address a few other issues.

General considerations

Since these proposals are of greater length, the publisher will require you to delve into greater detail as well—for instance, regarding the organization of the proposed book or article.

Publishers generally require a clear outline of the chapters you are proposing and an explication of their content, which can be several pages long in its entirety.

You will need to incorporate knowledge of relevant literature, use headings and sub-headings that you should not use in conference proposals. Be sure to know who wrote what about your topic and area of interest, even if you are proposing a less scholarly project.

Publishers prefer depth rather than width when it comes to your topic, so you should be as focused as possible and further outline your intended audience.

You should always include information regarding your proposed deadlines for the project and how you will execute this plan, especially in the sciences. Potential investors or publishers need to know that you have a clear and efficient plan to accomplish your proposed goals. Depending on the subject area, this information can also include a proposed budget, materials or machines required to execute this project, and information about its industrial application.

Pre-writing strategies

As John Boswell (cited in: Larsen, Michael. How to Write a Book Proposal. Writers Digest Books , 2004. p. 1) explains, “today fully 90 percent of all nonfiction books sold to trade publishers are acquired on the basis of a proposal alone.” Therefore, editors and agents generally do not accept completed manuscripts for publication, as these “cannot (be) put into the usual channels for making a sale”, since they “lack answers to questions of marketing, competition, and production.” (Lyon, Elizabeth. Nonfiction Book Proposals Anybody Can Write . Perigee Trade, 2002. pp. 6-7.)

In contrast to conference or, to a lesser degree, chapter proposals, a book proposal introduces your qualifications for writing it and compares your work to what others have done or failed to address in the past.

As a result, you should test the idea with your networks and, if possible, acquire other people’s proposals that discuss similar issues or have a similar format before submitting your proposal. Prior to your submission, it is recommended that you write at least part of the manuscript in addition to checking the competition and reading all about the topic.

The following is a list of questions to ask yourself before committing to a book project, but should in no way deter you from taking on a challenging project (adapted from Lyon 27). Depending on your field of study, some of these might be more relevant to you than others, but nonetheless useful to reiterate and pose to yourself.

• Do you have sufficient enthusiasm for a project that may span years?
• Will publication of your book satisfy your long-term career goals?
• Do you have enough material for such a long project and do you have the background knowledge and qualifications required for it?
• Is your book idea better than or different from other books on the subject? Does the idea spark enthusiasm not just in yourself but others in your field, friends, or prospective readers?
• Are you willing to acquire any lacking skills, such as, writing style, specific terminology and knowledge on that field for this project? Will it fit into your career and life at the time or will you not have the time to engage in such extensive research?

Essential elements of a book proposal

Your book proposal should include the following elements:

• Your proposal requires the consideration of the timing and potential for sale as well as its potential for subsidiary rights.
• It needs to include an outline of approximately one paragraph to one page of prose (Larsen 6) as well as one sample chapter to showcase the style and quality of your writing.
• You should also include the resources you need for the completion of the book and a biographical statement (“About the Author”).
• Your proposal must contain your credentials and expertise, preferably from previous publications on similar issues.
• A book proposal also provides you with the opportunity to include information such as a mission statement, a foreword by another authority, or special features—for instance, humor, anecdotes, illustrations, sidebars, etc.
• You must assess your ability to promote the book and know the market that you target in all its statistics.

The following proposal structure, as outlined by Peter E. Dunn for thesis and fellowship proposals, provides a useful guide to composing such a long proposal (Dunn, Peter E. “Proposal Writing.” Center for Instructional Excellence, Purdue University, 2007):

• Literature Review
• Identification of Problem
• Statement of Objectives
• Rationale and Significance
• Methods and Timeline
• Literature Cited

Most proposals for manuscripts range from thirty to fifty pages and, apart from the subject hook, book information (length, title, selling handle), markets for your book, and the section about the author, all the other sections are optional. Always anticipate and answer as many questions by editors as possible, however.

Finally, include the best chapter possible to represent your book's focus and style. Until an agent or editor advises you to do otherwise, follow your book proposal exactly without including something that you might not want to be part of the book or improvise on possible expected recommendations.

Publishers expect to acquire the book's primary rights, so that they can sell it in an adapted or condensed form as well. Mentioning any subsidiary rights, such as translation opportunities, performance and merchandising rights, or first-serial rights, will add to the editor's interest in buying your book. It is enticing to publishers to mention your manuscript's potential to turn into a series of books, although they might still hesitate to buy it right away—at least until the first one has been a successful endeavor.

The sample chapter

Since editors generally expect to see about one-tenth of a book, your sample chapter's length should reflect that in these building blocks of your book. The chapter should reflect your excitement and the freshness of the idea as well as surprise editors, but do not submit part of one or more chapters. Always send a chapter unless your credentials are impeccable due to prior publications on the subject. Do not repeat information in the sample chapter that will be covered by preceding or following ones, as the outline should be designed in such a way as to enable editors to understand the context already.

How to make your proposal stand out

Depending on the subject of your book, it is advisable to include illustrations that exemplify your vision of the book and can be included in the sample chapter. While these can make the book more expensive, it also increases the salability of the project. Further, you might consider including outstanding samples of your published work, such as clips from periodicals, if they are well-respected in the field. Thirdly, cover art can give your potential publisher a feel for your book and its marketability, especially if your topic is creative or related to the arts.

In addition, professionally formatting your materials will give you an edge over sloppy proposals. Proofread the materials carefully, use consistent and carefully organized fonts, spacing, etc., and submit your proposal without staples; rather, submit it in a neat portfolio that allows easy access and reassembling. However, check the submission guidelines first, as most proposals are submitted digitally. Finally, you should try to surprise editors and attract their attention. Your hook, however, should be imaginative but inexpensive (you do not want to bribe them, after all). Make sure your hook draws the editors to your book proposal immediately (Adapted from Larsen 154-60).

📕 Studying HQ

How to Write a Research Proposal for a Masters Degree

Rachel r.n..

• July 8, 2024
• How to Guides

Writing a research proposal for your master’s degree can seem like a daunting task. But don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the process step by step, using simple language and plenty of examples. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to create a strong research proposal that will impress your professors and set you up for success in your master’s program.

A research proposal is essentially a roadmap for your intended study. It outlines what you plan to research, why it’s important, and how you’ll go about doing it. Think of it as a blueprint for your academic journey – it shows your professors that you’ve thought carefully about your research and have a solid plan in place.

What You'll Learn

Why is a Research Proposal Important?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of writing your proposal, let’s talk about why it matters:

• It demonstrates your readiness for advanced study
• It shows your ability to think critically and organize your ideas
• It helps you clarify your research goals and methods
• It allows your professors to assess the feasibility and value of your project
• It can be used to secure funding or resources for your research

Now that we understand the importance, let’s break down the key components of a strong research proposal.

Your title is the first thing anyone will see, so it needs to be clear, concise, and attention-grabbing. It should give readers a quick insight into what your research is about.

Tips for crafting a good title:

• Keep it under 20 words
• Use key terms related to your research
• Make it specific to your study
• Avoid jargon or overly technical language
• Weak title: “A Study of Climate Change”
• Strong title: “The Impact of Rising Sea Levels on Coastal Communities in Florida: A 10-Year Projection”

2. Abstract

The abstract is a brief summary of your entire proposal. It should be no more than 250-300 words and cover the main points of your research, including your research question, methodology, and expected outcomes.

Key elements to include in your abstract:

• The main research question or problem
• The context or background of the study
• Your proposed methodology
• The significance of the research
• Expected results or contributions to the field

Example abstract: “This study aims to investigate the impact of social media use on the mental health of college students. Despite the growing concern about the negative effects of social media, there is limited research on its long-term psychological consequences. Using a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and in-depth interviews with 200 undergraduate students, this research will explore the relationship between social media usage patterns and reported levels of anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. The findings of this study will contribute to our understanding of the complex interplay between digital technology and mental well-being, potentially informing policies and interventions to promote healthier social media habits among young adults.”

3. Introduction

Your introduction sets the stage for your research. It should provide context for your study, clearly state your research question or problem, and explain why your research is important.

Key elements to include in your introduction:

• Background information on your topic
• The gap in current knowledge that your research will address
• Your main research question or hypothesis
• The significance of your study
• A brief overview of your methodology

Example: “In recent years, the rapid growth of e-commerce has transformed the retail landscape. While much attention has been paid to the impact on large retailers, less is known about how small, local businesses are adapting to this shift. This study aims to investigate how independent bookstores in urban areas are responding to the challenge of online competition.

Despite predictions of their demise, many independent bookstores have shown remarkable resilience. However, the strategies they use to compete with online giants like Amazon remain poorly understood. By examining the experiences of independent bookstore owners in three major U.S. cities, this research will shed light on the innovative approaches these businesses are using to survive and thrive in the digital age.

The main research question guiding this study is: What strategies are independent urban bookstores employing to compete with online retailers, and how effective are these strategies in ensuring their survival and growth?

To answer this question, I will conduct in-depth interviews with 30 bookstore owners and managers, analyze their financial data (where available), and observe customer behavior in these stores. This mixed-methods approach will provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing independent bookstores in the e-commerce era.

The findings of this study will not only contribute to our understanding of small business adaptation in the digital age but may also provide valuable insights for policymakers and business owners seeking to support the vitality of local retail ecosystems.”

4. Literature Review

The literature review demonstrates your familiarity with existing research in your field. It should summarize and critically analyze relevant studies, identifying gaps or controversies that your research will address.

Tips for writing an effective literature review:

• Organize studies thematically or chronologically
• Focus on recent research (usually within the last 5-10 years)
• Critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of key studies
• Identify gaps or contradictions in the existing research
• Show how your study will contribute to or extend current knowledge

Example (excerpt from a literature review on the impact of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction):

“Research on mindfulness meditation and stress reduction has grown significantly over the past decade. Kabat-Zinn’s (2003) seminal work established the foundation for Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programs, demonstrating significant reductions in self-reported anxiety and depression among participants. Building on this, Hoffman et al. (2010) conducted a meta-analysis of 39 studies, finding moderate effect sizes for anxiety (0.63) and mood symptoms (0.59) across various clinical populations.

More recent studies have begun to explore the neurobiological mechanisms underlying these effects. For instance, Hölzel et al. (2011) used MRI scans to show that an 8-week MBSR program led to increased gray matter density in the hippocampus, a region associated with learning, memory, and emotion regulation. Similarly, Creswell et al. (2016) found that mindfulness training was associated with reduced activity in the right amygdala in response to emotional stimuli, suggesting improved emotion regulation.

However, the field is not without its critics. Van Dam et al. (2018) argued that many studies on mindfulness suffer from methodological flaws, including small sample sizes, lack of active control groups, and reliance on self-report measures. They called for more rigorous research designs and standardized protocols to establish the true efficacy of mindfulness interventions.

Furthermore, while most research has focused on clinical populations or high-stress professionals, there is a notable gap in our understanding of how mindfulness practices might benefit college students, a population facing unique stressors related to academic performance, social adjustment, and future career prospects.

This study aims to address this gap by investigating the effects of a brief, online mindfulness intervention on stress levels among undergraduate students. By using both self-report measures and physiological indicators of stress (e.g., cortisol levels), we hope to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits of mindfulness practice for this population.”

5. Research Methodology

This section outlines how you plan to conduct your research. It should describe your research design, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques in detail.

Key elements to include in your methodology section:

• Research design (e.g., experimental, quasi-experimental, observational)
• Participants or sample (who will be studied and how they’ll be selected)
• Data collection methods (e.g., surveys, interviews, observations, experiments)
• Instruments or tools you’ll use (e.g., questionnaires, lab equipment)
• Data analysis techniques (e.g., statistical tests, qualitative coding methods)
• Ethical considerations

Example (for a study on the effectiveness of a new teaching method):

“Research Design: This study will employ a quasi-experimental design to evaluate the effectiveness of the flipped classroom model in improving student engagement and learning outcomes in high school science classes.

Participants: The study will involve 200 10th-grade students from four public high schools in the Denver metropolitan area. Two schools will implement the flipped classroom model (experimental group), while the other two will continue with traditional teaching methods (control group). Schools will be matched based on demographic characteristics and previous academic performance to ensure comparability.

Data Collection:

• Pre- and post-tests: Students in both groups will complete standardized science tests at the beginning and end of the semester to measure learning outcomes.
• Classroom observations: Trained researchers will conduct bi-weekly observations in both flipped and traditional classrooms using a structured observation protocol to assess student engagement and classroom dynamics.
• Student surveys: All participants will complete surveys at the midpoint and end of the semester to measure their perceptions of the learning experience, motivation, and self-efficacy.
• Teacher interviews: Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with the eight participating teachers (four in each condition) at the beginning, middle, and end of the semester to gather insights on implementation challenges and perceived effectiveness.
• Student grades: Final grades for the science course will be collected as an additional measure of academic performance.

Instruments:

• Science Achievement Test (SAT-10) for pre- and post-testing
• Classroom Observation Protocol for Undergraduate STEM (COPUS) for structured observations
• Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) for student surveys
• Semi-structured interview guide for teacher interviews

Data Analysis: Quantitative data (test scores, survey responses, and grades) will be analyzed using:

• Descriptive statistics to summarize overall patterns
• Independent samples t-tests to compare outcomes between experimental and control groups
• Multiple regression analysis to control for potential confounding variables (e.g., prior academic performance, demographic factors)

Qualitative data from classroom observations and teacher interviews will be analyzed using thematic analysis. This will involve coding the data to identify recurring themes and patterns related to student engagement, implementation challenges, and perceived effectiveness of the flipped classroom model.

Ethical Considerations:

• Informed consent will be obtained from all participants (students, parents, and teachers).
• Student data will be anonymized to protect privacy.
• The study protocol will be reviewed and approved by the university’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) and the school district’s research committee.
• Participants will be informed that they can withdraw from the study at any time without penalty.

By combining quantitative and qualitative methods, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of the flipped classroom model in high school science education.”

6. Timeline

The timeline section outlines the schedule for your research project. It should show that you have a realistic plan for completing your study within the time constraints of your master’s program.

Tips for creating a research timeline:

• Break your project into specific tasks or phases
• Estimate how long each task will take
• Include time for unexpected delays or setbacks
• Consider any external factors that might affect your schedule (e.g., academic holidays, participant availability)
• Use a Gantt chart or similar visual representation if helpful

Example timeline for a one-year master’s research project:

• Finalize research proposal
• Submit for IRB approval
• Begin detailed literature review
• Develop and pilot test research instruments (e.g., surveys, interview guides)
• Recruit participants
• Continue literature review
• Conduct data collection (surveys, interviews, experiments, etc.)
• Begin preliminary data analysis
• Complete data analysis
• Start writing results section

Month 10-11:

• Write discussion and conclusion sections
• Revise and refine entire thesis
• Final editing and proofreading
• Submit thesis for review
• Prepare for defense

If your research requires funding, you’ll need to include a budget section. This should outline all anticipated expenses and potential funding sources.

Key elements to include in your budget:

• Personnel costs (e.g., research assistants, transcription services)
• Equipment and supplies
• Travel expenses (if applicable)
• Participant compensation (if applicable)
• Software or data analysis tools
• Printing and publication costs

Example budget table:

8. Expected Outcomes and Significance

This section should discuss what you expect to find through your research and why it matters. Explain how your study will contribute to your field and potentially impact practice or policy.

Key points to address:

• Your anticipated findings or results
• How your research will fill gaps in current knowledge
• Potential practical applications of your research
• How your study might lead to future research directions

Example: “This study on the impact of mindfulness meditation on college students’ stress levels is expected to yield several important outcomes:

• Quantitative evidence: We anticipate finding a significant reduction in self-reported stress levels and physiological stress markers (cortisol) among students who complete the online mindfulness intervention compared to the control group.
• Qualitative insights: Through follow-up interviews, we expect to gain rich insights into students’ experiences with mindfulness practice, including perceived benefits and challenges of incorporating meditation into their daily routines.
• Dosage effects: By varying the duration and frequency of mindfulness practice, we hope to identify optimal ‘dosages’ for stress reduction in this population.
• Individual differences: We anticipate uncovering factors that may influence the effectiveness of mindfulness practice, such as personality traits or prior meditation experience.

The significance of this research lies in its potential to:

• Inform university mental health services: Results could guide the development of accessible, evidence-based stress management programs for college students.
• Enhance academic performance: If mindfulness is shown to effectively reduce stress, it may indirectly contribute to improved academic outcomes by enhancing students’ cognitive function and emotional well-being.
• Promote long-term health: By teaching stress management skills during a formative period, this intervention could have lasting impacts on students’ mental and physical health beyond their college years.
• Advance mindfulness research: This study will contribute to the growing body of literature on mindfulness interventions, particularly in non-clinical, young adult populations.
• Inspire future research: Findings may generate new questions about the mechanisms of mindfulness, its long-term effects, or its applicability to other stressful life transitions.

By providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of a brief, online mindfulness intervention for college students, this study has the potential to significantly impact how universities approach student well-being and stress management.”

9. References

Your reference list should include all sources cited in your proposal. Use the citation style specified by your department or institution (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

Tips for your reference list:

• Ensure all citations in the text are included in the reference list and vice versa
• Follow the required citation style consistently
• Include DOIs (Digital Object Identifiers) for journal articles when available
• Double-check for accuracy in authors’ names, publication dates, and titles

Example (in APA 7th edition style): Creswell, J. D., Taren, A. A., Lindsay, E. K., Greco, C. M., Gianaros, P. J., Fairgrieve, A., ... & Ferris, J. L. (2016). Alterations in resting-state functional connectivity link mindfulness meditation with reduced interleukin-6: A randomized controlled trial. Biological Psychiatry, 80(1), 53-61. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2016.01.008 Hölzel, B. K., Carmody, J., Vangel, M., Congleton, C., Yerramsetti, S. M., Gard, T., & Lazar, S. W. (2011). Mindfulness practice leads to increases in regional brain gray matter density. Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging, 191(1), 36-43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pscychresns.2010.08.006 Kabat-Zinn, J. (2003). Mindfulness-based interventions in context: Past, present, and future. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 10(2), 144-156. https://doi.org/10.1093/clipsy.bpg016 Van Dam, N. T., van Vugt, M. K., Vago, D. R., Schmalzl, L., Saron, C. D., Olendzki, A., ..

10. Writing Style and Formatting

How you present your research proposal is almost as important as its content. A well-written, properly formatted proposal shows attention to detail and professionalism.

Key points to remember:

• Use clear, concise language: Avoid jargon or overly complex sentences.
• Be consistent: Use the same tense and style throughout your proposal.
• Follow formatting guidelines: Adhere to your institution’s requirements for font, margins, spacing, and page numbers.
• Use headings and subheadings: These help organize your proposal and make it easier to read.
• Proofread carefully: Typos and grammatical errors can distract from your ideas.

Example of clear writing:

Unclear: “The utilization of social media platform s by adolescents has been hypothesized to potentially result in deleterious effects on their psychological well-being.”

Clear: “Research suggests that teenagers’ use of social media may harm their mental health.”

11. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced researchers can make mistakes in their proposals. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Being too ambitious: Ensure your research is feasible within your time and resource constraints.
• Neglecting the “So what?” question: Always explain why your research matters.
• Ignoring potential limitations: Acknowledge possible weaknesses in your study design.
• Using outdated sources: Rely primarily on recent, peer-reviewed research.
• Failing to connect ideas: Ensure each section flows logically into the next.
• Overlooking ethical considerations: Always address how you’ll protect participants and handle data ethically.
• Writing a vague methodology: Provide enough detail for someone else to replicate your study.

Example of addressing limitations:

“While this study will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of online mindfulness interventions for college students, it has some limitations. The sample is drawn from a single university, which may limit generalizability to other student populations. Additionally, the short-term nature of the study (one semester) means we cannot assess the long-term effects of the intervention. Future research could address these limitations by including multiple universities and incorporating follow-up assessments.”

12. Tailoring Your Proposal to Your Field

While the basic structure of a research proposal is similar across disciplines, there may be field-specific expectations you should be aware of.

Social Sciences:

• Emphasize theoretical frameworks
• Discuss how your research builds on or challenges existing theories
• Consider mixed-methods approaches (combining quantitative and qualitative data)

Natural Sciences:

• Provide detailed descriptions of experimental procedures
• Explain how you’ll control for variables
• Include power analyses to justify your sample size

Humanities:

• Focus on the cultural, historical, or philosophical significance of your topic
• Discuss your approach to analyzing texts, artifacts, or other primary sources
• Explain how your research contributes to ongoing scholarly debates in your field

Example (for a literature proposal):

“This study will employ close reading techniques and historical contextualization to examine the representation of technology in early 20th century science fiction novels. By analyzing works by H.G. Wells, Jules Verne, and E.M. Forster, I aim to illuminate how these authors’ portrayals of imagined technologies reflected and shaped societal attitudes towards technological progress. This research will contribute to ongoing discussions in the field of literature and science studies about the role of fiction in shaping public understanding of scientific and technological developments.”

13. Seeking Feedback

Before submitting your proposal, it’s crucial to get feedback from others. This can help you identify weaknesses in your argument, clarify confusing points, and refine your ideas.

Sources of feedback:

• Your advisor or supervisor: They can provide subject-specific guidance and ensure your proposal meets department expectations.
• Peers: Fellow students can offer fresh perspectives and catch things you might have missed.
• Writing center: Many universities have writing centers that can help with structure and clarity.
• Experts in your field: If possible, consider reaching out to scholars whose work you cite for their input.

When seeking feedback, consider asking specific questions like:

• Is my research question clear and focused?
• Does my methodology seem appropriate and feasible?
• Have I adequately explained the significance of this research?
• Are there any parts of the proposal that are confusing or need more detail?

14. Revising and Polishing

After receiving feedback, take the time to revise and polish your proposal. This process often involves several rounds of editing.

Tips for effective revision:

• Address all feedback: Consider each suggestion carefully, even if you ultimately decide not to incorporate it.
• Read your proposal aloud: This can help you catch awkward phrasing or repetitive language.
• Take breaks: Step away from your proposal for a day or two, then return with fresh eyes.
• Check for consistency: Ensure your research question, objectives, and methodology all align.
• Tighten your writing: Eliminate unnecessary words and phrases.
• Update your references: Double-check that all your sources are current and correctly cited.

Example of tightening writing:

Before: “In this study, we will be conducting an investigation into the effects that social media usage has on the mental health and well-being of adolescents.”

After: “This study investigates how social media use affects adolescents’ mental health.”

15. Preparing for Questions

Once you submit your proposal , you may be asked to defend it orally. Preparing for potential questions can boost your confidence and demonstrate your thorough understanding of the project.

Common questions to prepare for:

• Why is this research important?
• How does your study differ from previous research on this topic?
• What are the potential challenges or limitations of your methodology?
• How will you ensure the ethical treatment of participants?
• What do you expect to find, and what will you do if your results differ from these expectations?
• How might your findings be applied in real-world settings?
• What are your plans for disseminating the results of this study?

Example answer:

Question: “How does your study on mindfulness in college students differ from existing research?”

Answer: “While there’s a growing body of research on mindfulness interventions, our study is unique in several ways. First, we’re focusing specifically on college students, a population often experiencing high stress levels but underrepresented in mindfulness research. Second, we’re using a brief, online intervention, which is more accessible and potentially more scalable than traditional in-person programs. Lastly, we’re combining both physiological measures (cortisol levels) and self-report data, providing a more comprehensive picture of the intervention’s effects than many previous studies that relied solely on self-report measures.”

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How to Write an Outstanding Research Proposal for Master Thesis

How to write your research proposal

Exploring Special Education Research Proposal Topics

Writing a research proposal for your master’s degree is a challenging but rewarding process. It’s your opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of your field, your ability to identify important research questions, and your capacity to design a rigorous study to answer those questions.

Remember, a good proposal:

• Clearly states the research question and its significance
• Demonstrates familiarity with existing literature
• Outlines a feasible and appropriate methodology
• Anticipates potential challenges and limitations
• Explains the expected outcomes and their importance

By following the guidelines in this post, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a compelling research proposal. Don’t be discouraged if it takes several drafts to get it right – this is a normal part of the process. With persistence, critical thinking, and attention to detail, you can create a proposal that sets a strong foundation for your master’s research.

Good luck with your proposal, and enjoy the journey of contributing new knowledge to your field!

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How to write a good research proposal (in 9 steps)

A good research proposal is one of the keys to academic success. For bachelor’s and master’s students, the quality of a research proposal often determines whether the master’s program= can be completed or not. For PhD students, a research proposal is often the first step to securing a university position. This step-by-step manual guides you through the main stages of proposal writing.

1. Find a topic for your research proposal

Finding a topic for your research is a crucial first step. This decision should not be treated lightly.

How to find a research topic? Start broadly: Which courses did you enjoy? What issues discussed during seminars or lectures did you like? What inspired you during your education? And which readings did you appreciate?

Take a blank piece of paper. Write down everything that comes to your mind. It will help you to reflect on your interests.

2. Develop your research idea

Once you pinpoint your general topic of interest, you need to develop your idea.

Second, writing a research proposal is not a linear process. Start slowly by reading literature about your topic of interest. You have an interest. You read. You rethink your idea. You look for a theoretical framework. You go back to your idea and refine it. It is a process.

Remember that a good research proposal is not written in a day.

3. Conduct a literature review for your research proposal

Academic publications (journal articles and books) are the foundation of any research. Thus, academic literature is a good place to start. Especially when you still feel kind of lost regarding a focused research topic.

Download interesting-sounding articles and read them. Repeat but be cautious: You will never be able to read EVERYTHING. So set yourself a limit, in hours, days or number of articles (20 articles, for instance).

4. Define a research gap and research question

Asking yourself these questions helps you to formulate your research question. In your research question, be as specific as possible.

5. Establish a theoretical framework for your research proposal

A theory is a general principle to explain certain phenomena. No need to reinvent the wheel here.

6. Specify an empirical focus for your research proposal

There are only very few master’s and PhD theses that are entirely theoretical. Most theses, similar to most academic journal publications, have an empirical section.

It is also possible to start the whole research proposal idea with empirical observation. Maybe you’ve come across something in your environment that you would like to investigate further.

7. Emphasise the scientific and societal relevance of your research proposal

Do the grandparent test: Explain what you want to do to your grandparents (or any other person for that matter). Explain why it matters. Do your grandparents understand what you say? If so, well done. If not, try again.

Always remember. There is no need for fancy jargon. The best proposals are the ones that use clear, straightforward language.

8. Develop a methodology in your research proposal

The methodology is a system of methods that you will use to implement your research. A methodology explains how you plan to answer your research question.

Methods of data analysis are used to make sense of this data. This can be done, for instance, by coding, discourse analysis, mapping or statistical analysis.

9. Illustrate your research timeline in your research proposal

Don’t underestimate the value of a good timeline. Inevitably throughout your thesis process, you will feel lost at some point. A good timeline will bring you back on track.

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How to write a research proposal for a Master's dissertation

Unsure how to start your research proposal as part of your dissertation read below our top tips from banking and finance student, nelly, on how to structure your proposal and make sure it's a strong, formative foundation to build your dissertation..

It's understandable if the proposal part of your dissertation feels like a waste of time. Why not just get started on the dissertation itself? Isn't 'proposal' a just fancy word for a plan?

It's important to see your Master's research proposal not only as a requirement but as a way of formalising your ideas and mapping out the direction and purpose of your dissertation. A strong, carefully prepared proposal is instrumental in writing a good dissertation.

How to structure a research proposal for a Master's dissertation

First things first: what do you need to include in a research proposal? The recommended structure of your proposal is:

• Motivation: introduce your research question and give an overview of the topic, explain the importance of your research
• Theory:  draw on existing pieces of research that are relevant to your topic of choice, leading up to your question and identifying how your dissertation will explore new territory
• Data and methodology: how do you plan to answer the research question? Explain your data sources and methodology
• Expected results: finally, what will the outcome be? What do you think your data and methodology will find?

Top Tips for Writing a Dissertation Research Proposal

Choose a dissertation topic well in advance of starting to write it

Allow existing research to guide you

Make your research questions as specific as possible

When you choose a topic, it will naturally be very broad and general. For example, Market Efficiency . Under this umbrella term, there are so many questions you could explore and challenge. But, it's so important that you hone in on one very specific question, such as ' How do presidential elections affect market efficiency?'  When it comes to your Master's, the more specific and clear-cut the better.

Collate your bibliography as you go

Everyone knows it's best practice to update your bibliography as you go, but that doesn't just apply to the main bibliography document you submit with your dissertation. Get in the habit of writing down the title, author and date of the relevant article next to every note you make - you'll be grateful you did it later down the line!

Colour code your notes based on which part of the proposal they apply to

Use highlighters and sticky notes to keep track of why you thought a certain research piece was useful, and what you intended to use it for. For example, if you've underlined lots of sections of a research article when it comes to pulling your research proposal together it will take you longer to remember what piece of research applies to where.

Instead, you may want to highlight anything that could inform your methodology in blue, any quotations that will form your theory in yellow etc. This will save you time and stress later down the line.

Write your Motivation after your Theory

Your Motivation section will be that much more coherent and specific if you write it after you've done all your research. All the reading you have done for your Theory will better cement the importance of your research, as well as provide plenty of context for you to write in detail your motivation. Think about the difference between ' I'm doing this because I'm interested in it ' vs. ' I'm doing this because I'm passionate, and I've noticed a clear gap in this area of study which is detailed below in example A, B and C .'

Make sure your Data and Methodology section is to the point and succinct

Link your Expectations to existing research

Your expectations should be based on research and data, not conjecture and assumptions. It doesn't matter if the end results match up to what you expected, as long as both of these sections are informed by research and data. 

Published By Nelly on 01/09/2020 | Last Updated 23/01/2024

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Examples of research proposals

How to write your research proposal, with examples of good proposals.

Research proposals

Your research proposal is a key part of your application. It tells us about the question you want to answer through your research. It is a chance for you to show your knowledge of the subject area and tell us about the methods you want to use.

We use your research proposal to match you with a supervisor or team of supervisors.

In your proposal, please tell us if you have an interest in the work of a specific academic at York St John. You can get in touch with this academic to discuss your proposal. You can also speak to one of our Research Leads. There is a list of our Research Leads on the Apply page.

When you write your proposal you need to:

• Highlight how it is original or significant
• Explain how it will develop or challenge current knowledge of your subject
• Identify the importance of your research
• Show why you are the right person to do this research
• Research Proposal Example 1 (DOC, 49kB)
• Research Proposal Example 2 (DOC, 0.9MB)
• Research Proposal Example 3 (DOC, 55.5kB)
• Research Proposal Example 4 (DOC, 49.5kB)

Subject specific guidance

• Writing a Humanities PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
• Writing a Creative Writing PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
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How to Write a Master's Thesis Proposal

How to write a master’s thesis proposal is one of the most-asked questions by graduate students. A master's thesis proposal involves a copious amount of data collection, particular presentation ethics, and most importantly, it will become the roadmap to your full thesis. Remember, you must convince your committee that your idea is strong and unique, and that you have done enough legwork to begin with the first few drafts of your final thesis. Your proposal should serve as a foundational blueprint on which you will later build your entire project. To have the perfect thesis proposal, you need to have original ideas, solid information, and proper presentation. While it is a good idea to take assistance from thesis writing services , you still need to personally understand the elements that contribute to a master’s thesis proposal worthy of approval. In this blog, we will discuss the process of writing your master’s thesis proposal and give you tips for making your proposal strong. Stay tuned!

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Article Contents 8 min read

How to decide the goals for your master's thesis.

If you are pursuing a master’s or a PhD , you will be undertaking a major research paper or a thesis. Thus, writing a thesis proposal becomes inevitable. Your major objective for pursuing a master’s degree is to improve your knowledge in your field of study. When you start your degree, you delve deeper into different concepts in your discipline and try to search for answers to all kinds of questions. If you come across a question that no one can answer, you can select that question as your research thesis topic.

A master's thesis proposal will have multiple sections depending on your decided layout. These sections will continuously support your argument and try to convince the reader of your core argument. The structure will also help you arrange the various parts of the paper to have a greater impact on the readers. A paper should always begin with you giving a brief summary of the topic and how you have come across it. The introduction is particularly important because it will give the readers a brief idea about the topic of discussion and win their interest in the matter.

After the summary has been given, slowly you need to progress into the body of the thesis proposal which would explain your argument, research methodology, literary texts that have a relation to the topic, and the conclusion of your study. It would be similar to an essay or a literary review consisting of 3 or 4 parts. The bibliography will be placed at the end of the paper so that people can cross-check your sources.

Let's take a look at the sections most master's thesis proposals should cover. Please note that each university has its own guidelines for how to structure and what to include in a master’s thesis proposal. The outline we provide below is general, so please make sure to follow the exact guidelines provided by your school:

Restate your primary argument and give us a glimpse of what you will include in the main master\u2019s thesis. Leave the reader wanting more. Your research proposal should talk about what research chapters you are trying to undertake in your final thesis. You can also mention the proposed time in which you will complete these chapters.  ","label":"Conclusion and proposed chapters","title":"Conclusion and proposed chapters"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

A thesis proposal needs to be convincing enough to get approval. If the information is not enough to satisfy the evaluation committee, it would require revision. Hence, you need to select and follow the right methodology to make your argument convincing. When a research proposal is presented, the reader will determine the validity of your argument by judging the strength of your evidence and conclusions. Therefore, even writige:ng a proposal will require extensive research on your part. You should start writing your thesis proposal by working through the following steps.

Interested in a summary of the points covered below? Check out this infographic:

Exploring your topic in detail

You need to delve deeper into your chosen topic to see if your idea is original. In the process of this exploration, you will find tons of materials that will be supportive of your argument. When choosing your research topic and the problem you want to explore, you should always consider your primary research interest (yes, the one which you had mentioned in your research interest statement during grad school applications) for a better master’s thesis. You have a high probability of performing better in an area that you have always liked as compared to any other research area or topic.

Reviewing the literature

You have to include all the sources from where you have formed your argument and mention them in the thesis proposal. If you neglect to mention important source texts, the reader may consider it to be plagiarism. Furthermore, you want to keep track of all your research because it will be easier to provide references if you know the exact source of each piece of information.

Finding opposing arguments for your study

You should also mention any texts that would counter your argument and try to disprove their claims in the thesis. Make sure to use evidence if you try to disprove the counterarguments you face.

Emphasizing the importance of your research

At the end of the thesis proposal, you need to convince the reader why your proposal is important to your chosen field of study, which would ultimately help you in getting your topic approved. Thus, it is essential to outline the importance of your research thoroughly.

Drafting your proposal

After doing proper research, you should go ahead and draft your proposal. Remember you will not get it right in just one draft, it will take at least 50 attempts to come up with a satisfactory proposal. You should proofread your draft several times and even have a fellow student review it for you before sending it further to your research supervisor.

Getting your proposal evaluated by your supervisor

After you have written sufficient drafts, you need to get your proposal evaluated by your research supervisor. This is necessary to meet the graduate research requirements. It will ensure the clarity and correctness of your proposal. For your supervisor to evaluate your proposal, you should complete the research methodology part along with sufficient proposed work.

Since your supervisor will play a crucial role in your master's research thesis, you must choose a supervisor who can be your ultimate guide in writing your master's thesis. They will be your partner and support system during your study and will help you in eliminating obstacles to achieving your goal.

Choosing the ideal supervisor is a pretty daunting task. Here’s how you can go about the process:

You should approach your professor with an open mind and discuss the potential goals of your research. You should hear what they think and then if you both mutually agree, you can choose them as your supervisor for your master\u2019s thesis. "}]">

Length of a Master’s Thesis Proposal

The length of a master’s thesis proposal differs from university to university and depends on the discipline of research as well. Usually, you have to include all the above-mentioned sections, and the length is around 8 pages and can go up to 12-15 pages for subjects such as the liberal arts. Universities might also define the number of words in the guidelines for your master’s thesis proposal and you have to adhere to that word limit.

How to Format a Research Thesis Proposal Correctly?

Now that you know how to write a thesis proposal, you must make it presentable. Although your school might give your specific instructions, you can keep in mind some of the general advice:

• You can use some basic font like Times New Roman and keep the font size to 10 or 12 points.
• The left margin should be 1.5 inches and all other margins should be 1 inch each.
• You should follow double-spacing for your content.
• The first line of paragraphs should be indented 0.5 inches and the paragraphs should be left or center aligned.

Tips to Write a Strong Master's Thesis Proposal

When you are writing your master’s thesis proposal, you should keep these tips in mind to write an excellent master’s thesis proposal with all the correct elements to get approval from the evaluating committee:

Select your research objectives wisely

You should be clear on what you wish to learn from your research. Your learning objectives should stem from your research interests. If you are unsure, refer to your grad school career goals statement to review what you wanted out of grad school in the first place. Then, choose your objectives around it.

Write a clear title

The title of your research proposal should be concise and written in a language that can be understood easily by others. The title should be able to give the reader an idea of your intended research and should be interesting.

Jot down your thoughts, arguments, and evidence

You should always start with a rough outline of your arguments because you will not miss any point in this way. Brainstorm what you want to include in the proposal and then expand those points to complete your proposal. You can decide the major headings with the help of the guidelines provided to you.

Focus on the feasibility and importance

You should consider whether your research is feasible with the available resources. Additionally, your proposal should clearly convey the significance of your research in your field.

Use simple language

Since the evaluation committee can have researchers from different subject areas, it is best to write your proposal in a simple language that is understandable by all.

Stick to the guidelines

Your university will be providing the guidelines for writing your research proposal. You should adhere to those guidelines strictly since your proposal will be primarily evaluated on the basis of those.

Have an impactful opening section

It is a no-brainer that the opening statement of your proposal should be powerful enough to grasp the attention of the readers and get them interested in your research topic. You should be able to convey your interest and enthusiasm in the introductory section.

Peer review prior to submission

Apart from working with your research supervisor, it is essential that you ask some classmates and friends to review your proposal. The comments and suggestions that they give will be valuable in helping you to make the language of your proposal clearer.

You have worked hard to get into grad school and even harder on searching your research topic. Thus, you must be careful while building your thesis proposal so that you have maximum chances of acceptance.

Writing the perfect research proposal might be challenging, but keeping to the basics might make your task easier. In a nutshell, you need to be thorough in your study question. You should conduct sufficient research to gather all relevant materials required to support your argument. After collecting all data, make sure to present it systematically to give a clearer understanding and convince the evaluators to approve your proposal. Lastly, remember to submit your proposal well within the deadline set by your university. Your performance at grad school is essential, especially if you need a graduate degree to gain admission to med school and your thesis contributes to that performance. Thus, start with a suitable research problem, draft a strong proposal, and then begin with your thesis after your proposal is approved.

In your master’s thesis proposal, you should include your research topic and the problem statement being addressed in your research, along with a proposed solution. The proposal should explain the importance and limitations of your research.

The length of a master’s thesis proposal is outlined by the university in the instructions for preparing your master’s thesis proposal.

The time taken to write a master’s thesis proposal depends upon the study which you are undertaking and your discipline of research. It will take a minimum time of three months. The ideal time can be around six months. 

You should begin your master’s thesis proposal by writing an introduction to your research topic. You should state your topic clearly and provide some background. Keep notes and rough drafts of your proposal so you can always refer to them when you write the first real draft.

The basic sections that your master’s thesis proposal should cover are the problem statement, research methodology, proposed activities, importance, and the limitations of your research.

A master’s thesis proposal which clearly defines the problem in a straightforward and explains the research methodology in simple words is considered a good thesis proposal.

You can use any classic font for your master’s thesis proposal such as Times New Roman. If you are recommended a specific font in the proposal guidelines by your institution, it would be advisable to stick to that.

The ideal font size for your master’s thesis proposal will be 10 or 12 points.

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How to write a research proposal

What is a research proposal.

A research proposal should present your idea or question and expected outcomes with clarity and definition – the what.

It should also make a case for why your question is significant and what value it will bring to your discipline – the why. 

What it shouldn't do is answer the question – that's what your research will do.

Why is it important?

Research proposals are significant because Another reason why it formally outlines your intended research. Which means you need to provide details on how you will go about your research, including:

• your approach and methodology
• timeline and feasibility
• all other considerations needed to progress your research, such as resources.

Think of it as a tool that will help you clarify your idea and make conducting your research easier.

How long should it be?

Usually no more than 2000 words, but check the requirements of your degree, and your supervisor or research coordinator.

Presenting your idea clearly and concisely demonstrates that you can write this way – an attribute of a potential research candidate that is valued by assessors.

What should it include?

Project title.

Your title should clearly indicate what your proposed research is about.

Research supervisor

State the name, department and faculty or school of the academic who has agreed to supervise you. Rest assured, your research supervisor will work with you to refine your research proposal ahead of submission to ensure it meets the needs of your discipline.

Proposed mode of research

Describe your proposed mode of research. Which may be closely linked to your discipline, and is where you will describe the style or format of your research, e.g. data, field research, composition, written work, social performance and mixed media etc. 

This is not required for research in the sciences, but your research supervisor will be able to guide you on discipline-specific requirements.

Aims and objectives

What are you trying to achieve with your research? What is the purpose? This section should reference why you're applying for a research degree. Are you addressing a gap in the current research? Do you want to look at a theory more closely and test it out? Is there something you're trying to prove or disprove? To help you clarify this, think about the potential outcome of your research if you were successful – that is your aim. Make sure that this is a focused statement.

Your objectives will be your aim broken down – the steps to achieving the intended outcome. They are the smaller proof points that will underpin your research's purpose. Be logical in the order of how you present these so that each succeeds the previous, i.e. if you need to achieve 'a' before 'b' before 'c', then make sure you order your objectives a, b, c.

A concise summary of what your research is about. It outlines the key aspects of what you will investigate as well as the expected outcomes. It briefly covers the what, why and how of your research. 

A good way to evaluate if you have written a strong synopsis, is to get somebody to read it without reading the rest of your research proposal. Would they know what your research is about?

Now that you have your question clarified, it is time to explain the why. Here, you need to demonstrate an understanding of the current research climate in your area of interest.

Providing context around your research topic through a literature review will show the assessor that you understand current dialogue around your research, and what is published.

Demonstrate you have a strong understanding of the key topics, significant studies and notable researchers in your area of research and how these have contributed to the current landscape.

Expected research contribution

In this section, you should consider the following:

• Why is your research question or hypothesis worth asking?
• How is the current research lacking or falling short?
• What impact will your research have on the discipline?
• Will you be extending an area of knowledge, applying it to new contexts, solving a problem, testing a theory, or challenging an existing one?
• Establish why your research is important by convincing your audience there is a gap.
• What will be the outcome of your research contribution?
• Demonstrate both your current level of knowledge and how the pursuit of your question or hypothesis will create a new understanding and generate new information.
• Show how your research is innovative and original.

Draw links between your research and the faculty or school you are applying at, and explain why you have chosen your supervisor, and what research have they or their school done to reinforce and support your own work. Cite these reasons to demonstrate how your research will benefit and contribute to the current body of knowledge.

Proposed methodology

Provide an overview of the methodology and techniques you will use to conduct your research. Cover what materials and equipment you will use, what theoretical frameworks will you draw on, and how will you collect data.

Highlight why you have chosen this particular methodology, but also why others may not have been as suitable. You need to demonstrate that you have put thought into your approach and why it's the most appropriate way to carry out your research. 

It should also highlight potential limitations you anticipate, feasibility within time and other constraints, ethical considerations and how you will address these, as well as general resources.

A work plan is a critical component of your research proposal because it indicates the feasibility of completion within the timeframe and supports you in achieving your objectives throughout your degree.

Consider the milestones you aim to achieve at each stage of your research. A PhD or master's degree by research can take two to four years of full-time study to complete. It might be helpful to offer year one in detail and the following years in broader terms. Ultimately you have to show that your research is likely to be both original and finished – and that you understand the time involved.

Provide details of the resources you will need to carry out your research project. Consider equipment, fieldwork expenses, travel and a proposed budget, to indicate how realistic your research proposal is in terms of financial requirements and whether any adjustments are needed.

Bibliography

Provide a list of references that you've made throughout your research proposal. 

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17 Research Proposal Examples

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

A research proposal systematically and transparently outlines a proposed research project.

The purpose of a research proposal is to demonstrate a project’s viability and the researcher’s preparedness to conduct an academic study. It serves as a roadmap for the researcher.

The process holds value both externally (for accountability purposes and often as a requirement for a grant application) and intrinsic value (for helping the researcher to clarify the mechanics, purpose, and potential signficance of the study).

Key sections of a research proposal include: the title, abstract, introduction, literature review, research design and methods, timeline, budget, outcomes and implications, references, and appendix. Each is briefly explained below.

Watch my Guide: How to Write a Research Proposal

Get your Template for Writing your Research Proposal Here (With AI Prompts!)

Research Proposal Sample Structure

Title: The title should present a concise and descriptive statement that clearly conveys the core idea of the research projects. Make it as specific as possible. The reader should immediately be able to grasp the core idea of the intended research project. Often, the title is left too vague and does not help give an understanding of what exactly the study looks at.

Abstract: Abstracts are usually around 250-300 words and provide an overview of what is to follow – including the research problem , objectives, methods, expected outcomes, and significance of the study. Use it as a roadmap and ensure that, if the abstract is the only thing someone reads, they’ll get a good fly-by of what will be discussed in the peice.

Introduction: Introductions are all about contextualization. They often set the background information with a statement of the problem. At the end of the introduction, the reader should understand what the rationale for the study truly is. I like to see the research questions or hypotheses included in the introduction and I like to get a good understanding of what the significance of the research will be. It’s often easiest to write the introduction last

Literature Review: The literature review dives deep into the existing literature on the topic, demosntrating your thorough understanding of the existing literature including themes, strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in the literature. It serves both to demonstrate your knowledge of the field and, to demonstrate how the proposed study will fit alongside the literature on the topic. A good literature review concludes by clearly demonstrating how your research will contribute something new and innovative to the conversation in the literature.

Research Design and Methods: This section needs to clearly demonstrate how the data will be gathered and analyzed in a systematic and academically sound manner. Here, you need to demonstrate that the conclusions of your research will be both valid and reliable. Common points discussed in the research design and methods section include highlighting the research paradigm, methodologies, intended population or sample to be studied, data collection techniques, and data analysis procedures . Toward the end of this section, you are encouraged to also address ethical considerations and limitations of the research process , but also to explain why you chose your research design and how you are mitigating the identified risks and limitations.

Timeline: Provide an outline of the anticipated timeline for the study. Break it down into its various stages (including data collection, data analysis, and report writing). The goal of this section is firstly to establish a reasonable breakdown of steps for you to follow and secondly to demonstrate to the assessors that your project is practicable and feasible.

Budget: Estimate the costs associated with the research project and include evidence for your estimations. Typical costs include staffing costs, equipment, travel, and data collection tools. When applying for a scholarship, the budget should demonstrate that you are being responsible with your expensive and that your funding application is reasonable.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: A discussion of the anticipated findings or results of the research, as well as the potential contributions to the existing knowledge, theory, or practice in the field. This section should also address the potential impact of the research on relevant stakeholders and any broader implications for policy or practice.

References: A complete list of all the sources cited in the research proposal, formatted according to the required citation style. This demonstrates the researcher’s familiarity with the relevant literature and ensures proper attribution of ideas and information.

Appendices (if applicable): Any additional materials, such as questionnaires, interview guides, or consent forms, that provide further information or support for the research proposal. These materials should be included as appendices at the end of the document.

Research Proposal Examples

Research proposals often extend anywhere between 2,000 and 15,000 words in length. The following snippets are samples designed to briefly demonstrate what might be discussed in each section.

1. Education Studies Research Proposals

See some real sample pieces:

• Assessment of the perceptions of teachers towards a new grading system
• Does ICT use in secondary classrooms help or hinder student learning?
• Digital technologies in focus project
• Urban Middle School Teachers’ Experiences of the Implementation of
• Restorative Justice Practices
• Experiences of students of color in service learning

Consider this hypothetical education research proposal:

The Impact of Game-Based Learning on Student Engagement and Academic Performance in Middle School Mathematics

Abstract: The proposed study will explore multiplayer game-based learning techniques in middle school mathematics curricula and their effects on student engagement. The study aims to contribute to the current literature on game-based learning by examining the effects of multiplayer gaming in learning.

Introduction: Digital game-based learning has long been shunned within mathematics education for fears that it may distract students or lower the academic integrity of the classrooms. However, there is emerging evidence that digital games in math have emerging benefits not only for engagement but also academic skill development. Contributing to this discourse, this study seeks to explore the potential benefits of multiplayer digital game-based learning by examining its impact on middle school students’ engagement and academic performance in a mathematics class.

Literature Review: The literature review has identified gaps in the current knowledge, namely, while game-based learning has been extensively explored, the role of multiplayer games in supporting learning has not been studied.

Research Design and Methods: This study will employ a mixed-methods research design based upon action research in the classroom. A quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test control group design will first be used to compare the academic performance and engagement of middle school students exposed to game-based learning techniques with those in a control group receiving instruction without the aid of technology. Students will also be observed and interviewed in regard to the effect of communication and collaboration during gameplay on their learning.

Timeline: The study will take place across the second term of the school year with a pre-test taking place on the first day of the term and the post-test taking place on Wednesday in Week 10.

Budget: The key budgetary requirements will be the technologies required, including the subscription cost for the identified games and computers.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: It is expected that the findings will contribute to the current literature on game-based learning and inform educational practices, providing educators and policymakers with insights into how to better support student achievement in mathematics.

2. Psychology Research Proposals

See some real examples:

• A situational analysis of shared leadership in a self-managing team
• The effect of musical preference on running performance
• Relationship between self-esteem and disordered eating amongst adolescent females

Consider this hypothetical psychology research proposal:

The Effects of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Stress Reduction in College Students

Abstract: This research proposal examines the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on stress reduction among college students, using a pre-test/post-test experimental design with both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods .

Introduction: College students face heightened stress levels during exam weeks. This can affect both mental health and test performance. This study explores the potential benefits of mindfulness-based interventions such as meditation as a way to mediate stress levels in the weeks leading up to exam time.

Literature Review: Existing research on mindfulness-based meditation has shown the ability for mindfulness to increase metacognition, decrease anxiety levels, and decrease stress. Existing literature has looked at workplace, high school and general college-level applications. This study will contribute to the corpus of literature by exploring the effects of mindfulness directly in the context of exam weeks.

Research Design and Methods: Participants ( n= 234 ) will be randomly assigned to either an experimental group, receiving 5 days per week of 10-minute mindfulness-based interventions, or a control group, receiving no intervention. Data will be collected through self-report questionnaires, measuring stress levels, semi-structured interviews exploring participants’ experiences, and students’ test scores.

Timeline: The study will begin three weeks before the students’ exam week and conclude after each student’s final exam. Data collection will occur at the beginning (pre-test of self-reported stress levels) and end (post-test) of the three weeks.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: The study aims to provide evidence supporting the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing stress among college students in the lead up to exams, with potential implications for mental health support and stress management programs on college campuses.

3. Sociology Research Proposals

• Understanding emerging social movements: A case study of ‘Jersey in Transition’
• The interaction of health, education and employment in Western China
• Can we preserve lower-income affordable neighbourhoods in the face of rising costs?

Consider this hypothetical sociology research proposal:

The Impact of Social Media Usage on Interpersonal Relationships among Young Adults

Abstract: This research proposal investigates the effects of social media usage on interpersonal relationships among young adults, using a longitudinal mixed-methods approach with ongoing semi-structured interviews to collect qualitative data.

Introduction: Social media platforms have become a key medium for the development of interpersonal relationships, particularly for young adults. This study examines the potential positive and negative effects of social media usage on young adults’ relationships and development over time.

Literature Review: A preliminary review of relevant literature has demonstrated that social media usage is central to development of a personal identity and relationships with others with similar subcultural interests. However, it has also been accompanied by data on mental health deline and deteriorating off-screen relationships. The literature is to-date lacking important longitudinal data on these topics.

Research Design and Methods: Participants ( n = 454 ) will be young adults aged 18-24. Ongoing self-report surveys will assess participants’ social media usage, relationship satisfaction, and communication patterns. A subset of participants will be selected for longitudinal in-depth interviews starting at age 18 and continuing for 5 years.

Timeline: The study will be conducted over a period of five years, including recruitment, data collection, analysis, and report writing.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: This study aims to provide insights into the complex relationship between social media usage and interpersonal relationships among young adults, potentially informing social policies and mental health support related to social media use.

4. Nursing Research Proposals

• Does Orthopaedic Pre-assessment clinic prepare the patient for admission to hospital?
• Nurses’ perceptions and experiences of providing psychological care to burns patients
• Registered psychiatric nurse’s practice with mentally ill parents and their children

Consider this hypothetical nursing research proposal:

The Influence of Nurse-Patient Communication on Patient Satisfaction and Health Outcomes following Emergency Cesarians

Abstract: This research will examines the impact of effective nurse-patient communication on patient satisfaction and health outcomes for women following c-sections, utilizing a mixed-methods approach with patient surveys and semi-structured interviews.

Introduction: It has long been known that effective communication between nurses and patients is crucial for quality care. However, additional complications arise following emergency c-sections due to the interaction between new mother’s changing roles and recovery from surgery.

Literature Review: A review of the literature demonstrates the importance of nurse-patient communication, its impact on patient satisfaction, and potential links to health outcomes. However, communication between nurses and new mothers is less examined, and the specific experiences of those who have given birth via emergency c-section are to date unexamined.

Research Design and Methods: Participants will be patients in a hospital setting who have recently had an emergency c-section. A self-report survey will assess their satisfaction with nurse-patient communication and perceived health outcomes. A subset of participants will be selected for in-depth interviews to explore their experiences and perceptions of the communication with their nurses.

Timeline: The study will be conducted over a period of six months, including rolling recruitment, data collection, analysis, and report writing within the hospital.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: This study aims to provide evidence for the significance of nurse-patient communication in supporting new mothers who have had an emergency c-section. Recommendations will be presented for supporting nurses and midwives in improving outcomes for new mothers who had complications during birth.

5. Social Work Research Proposals

• Experiences of negotiating employment and caring responsibilities of fathers post-divorce
• Exploring kinship care in the north region of British Columbia

Consider this hypothetical social work research proposal:

The Role of a Family-Centered Intervention in Preventing Homelessness Among At-Risk Youthin a working-class town in Northern England

Abstract: This research proposal investigates the effectiveness of a family-centered intervention provided by a local council area in preventing homelessness among at-risk youth. This case study will use a mixed-methods approach with program evaluation data and semi-structured interviews to collect quantitative and qualitative data .

Introduction: Homelessness among youth remains a significant social issue. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of family-centered interventions in addressing this problem and identify factors that contribute to successful prevention strategies.

Literature Review: A review of the literature has demonstrated several key factors contributing to youth homelessness including lack of parental support, lack of social support, and low levels of family involvement. It also demonstrates the important role of family-centered interventions in addressing this issue. Drawing on current evidence, this study explores the effectiveness of one such intervention in preventing homelessness among at-risk youth in a working-class town in Northern England.

Research Design and Methods: The study will evaluate a new family-centered intervention program targeting at-risk youth and their families. Quantitative data on program outcomes, including housing stability and family functioning, will be collected through program records and evaluation reports. Semi-structured interviews with program staff, participants, and relevant stakeholders will provide qualitative insights into the factors contributing to program success or failure.

Timeline: The study will be conducted over a period of six months, including recruitment, data collection, analysis, and report writing.

Budget: Expenses include access to program evaluation data, interview materials, data analysis software, and any related travel costs for in-person interviews.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: This study aims to provide evidence for the effectiveness of family-centered interventions in preventing youth homelessness, potentially informing the expansion of or necessary changes to social work practices in Northern England.

Research Proposal Template

Get your Detailed Template for Writing your Research Proposal Here (With AI Prompts!)

This is a template for a 2500-word research proposal. You may find it difficult to squeeze everything into this wordcount, but it’s a common wordcount for Honors and MA-level dissertations.

Your research proposal is where you really get going with your study. I’d strongly recommend working closely with your teacher in developing a research proposal that’s consistent with the requirements and culture of your institution, as in my experience it varies considerably. The above template is from my own courses that walk students through research proposals in a British School of Education.

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 21 Montessori Homeschool Setups
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• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 15 Green Flags in a Relationship
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 15 Signs you're Burnt Out, Not Lazy

8 thoughts on “17 Research Proposal Examples”

Very excellent research proposals

very helpful

Very helpful

Dear Sir, I need some help to write an educational research proposal. Thank you.

Hi Levi, use the site search bar to ask a question and I’ll likely have a guide already written for your specific question. Thanks for reading!

very good research proposal

Thank you so much sir! ❤️

Very helpful 👌

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Free Download

Research Proposal Template

The fastest (and smartest) way to craft a convincing proposal and get your dissertation or research project approved.

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What It Covers

This free proposal template covers the core essential ingredients for a strong research proposal. It includes clear explanations of what you need to address in each section, as well as straightforward examples and links to further resources. The template covers the following core elements:

• Introduction & background (including the research problem)
• Literature review
• Research design/methodology
• Project plan, resource requirements and
• risk management

The Google Doc can be copied to your Google Drive 0r downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), which you can also use in LaTeX.

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FAQs: Research Proposal Template

Research proposal template faqs, what types of research proposals can this template be used for.

The proposal template follows the standard format for academic research projects, which means it will be suitable for the vast majority of dissertations and theses (especially those within the sciences), whether they are qualitative or quantitative in terms of design.

Keep in mind that the exact requirements for the introduction chapter/section will vary between universities and degree programs. These are typically minor, but it’s always a good idea to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalise your structure.

Is this template for an undergrad, Master or PhD-level proposal?

This template can be used for a research project at any level of study. Doctoral-level projects typically require the research proposal to be more extensive/comprehensive, but the structure will typically remain the same.

How long should my research proposal be?

The length of a research proposal varies by institution and subject, but as a ballpark, it’s usually between 1,500 and 3,000 words.

To be safe, it’s best to check with your university if they have any preferences or requirements in terms of minimum and maximum word count for the research propsal.

How detailed should the methodology of the proposal be?

You don’t need to go into the fine details of your methodology, but this section should be detailed enough to demonstrate that your research approach is feasible and will address your research questions effectively. Be sure to include your intended methods for data collection and analysis.

Can I include preliminary data or pilot study results in my proposal?

Generally, yes. This can strengthen your proposal by demonstrating the feasibility of your research. However, make sure that your pilot study is approved by your university before collecting any data.

Can I share this template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template in its original format (no editing allowed). If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, we kindly request that you reference this page as your source.

What format is the template (DOC, PDF, PPT, etc.)?

The research proposal template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

Do you have templates for the other chapters?

Yes, we do. We are constantly developing our collection of free resources to help students complete their dissertations and theses. You can view all of our template resources here .

Can Grad Coach help me with my dissertation/thesis?

Yes, you’re welcome to get in touch with us to discuss our private coaching services .

Additional Resources

If you’re working on a research proposal, you’ll also want to check these out…

1-On-1 Private Coaching

Research Proposal Bootcamp

The Grad Coach YouTube Channel

The Grad Coach Podcast

10 Helpful Steps for Writing a Graduate Research Proposal

The road to obtain a graduate degree is unquestionably long. But we have ten incredibly helpful steps for writing your graduate research proposal. When you finally reach your destination, it will all be worthwhile.

As a graduate student, when you start your journey, you must write, present and defend a graduate research proposal in front of a committee of professors, also known as a graduate advisory committee.

A research proposal is usually short, with only fewer than ten pages, but it has to cover the proposed research in detail. After the committee approves it, you should follow the research plan explained in the research proposal to complete your research project.

Figure 1. The typical timeline in graduate school.

Why is it important to write a research proposal?

There are eight major reasons for graduate students to write a research proposal in graduate school:

• It's required by the graduate school before performing research.
• Students become more familiar with the research project
• They develop research skills and academic writing skills.
• Students develop literature review skills.
• Students learn how to identify the research problem, objective, research questions and hypothesis.
• They learn to explore different methods to collect and analyze data, and to select the most appropriate methods for solving research problems.
• They learn to design research experiments based on logical and chronological steps.
• The process nurtures critical thinking and logical reasoning skills.

What to include in a research proposal

The common elements to include in a good research proposal are:

• Title : The title of a research proposal should be clear and brief.
• Introduction : This part contains the background information of the proposed study leading to the research problem.
• Statement of purpose : This element should include the research objectives.
• Literature review : It should include an overview of findings from the previous studies, the gaps in the previous studies and the findings from a preliminary study.
• Research questions and hypothesis : This includes the research questions and hypothesis.
• Methodology : This element contains a full description of the research procedures, possible problems and alternatives strategies.
• The significance and impact of the study : This part shows how the proposed research will contribute to the field of study.

The 10 steps to writing an incredible research proposal

Below are ten steps for writing a research proposal:

1.Choose a research topic and develop a working title

Having a strong interest in your research topic will certainly help you to keep going when the journey becomes more challenging. The research topic is the subject of your research, which is a part of a broader field of study.

When you pick a research topic, find a topic that is not too narrow nor too broad. You can limit your topic, for example, by focusing on a certain treatment, population group, species, geographical area, period, methodology, or other specific factors.

After selecting a research topic, develop a working title to help you focus on your topic. As you write the proposal, you can keep changing the working title to formulate the perfect title.

2.Perform a literature review

The next step is to conduct a literature review. This step is important because when you write out the background information and knowledge gaps in your topic area, it will help you become more familiar with your research topic.

In addition, performing a literature review will direct you to a research problem . A research problem is a specific area of concern serving as the focus of your proposed research.

When performing a literature review, a graduate student can also discover some ideas for designing their research plan.

To help you conduct a literature review, answer the following questions below:

What have others done so far to solve the research problem?

Some helpful steps to answer this question:

• Understand the experimental designs from previous studies to help you design your own research experiments.
• Learn about appropriate sample sizes, data collection, and statistical analyses from previous studies.
• Investigate and make a list the reagents and equipment you’ll possibly need for your research.
• Learn the research questions, the findings, the impact and the significance of previous studies.
• Find out about any ethical concerns.

What additional studies are still needed to solve the research problem?

• Pay attention to the strength and limitation part of the discussion section of scientific articles. From this part, make notes about the limitations of previous studies to give you an idea about a potential research problem.
• Read the suggestions for future research part of scientific articles. That can serve as a call to action for you to solve those unanswered questions from previous studies.

3.Write an introduction

The introduction of your research proposal builds a framework for the research. This framework is the structure that supports your study and contains the background information. Its function is similar to the role of a foundation in supporting a building—if it is weak, a building will fall apart. Likewise, if your research lacks a strong background as a framework, it’s hard for others to see why it matters.

Writing your introduction can feel a little overwhelming. Where do you begin? How do you know you’re not missing anything?

You might want to read over our article:

How to Write an Effective Introduction Section of a Scientific Article

While the article is more specific to the introduction section of a formal research paper, there are some parts and tips you might find helpful.

4. Write research objectives or aims

In the next step, include research objectives or aims in the research proposal. A research objective is a goal you want to achieve in your research project ( Al-Riyami, 2008 ). Your research objectives must have a strong connection with your research problem.

When developing research objectives, identify all variables associated with the research problem. A variable in the research is a characteristic that you manipulate or observe in your experiment.

There are different types of variables, including an independent variable and dependent variable (Al-Riyami, 2008). An independent variable is a variable you can change in your experiment, whereas a dependent variable is a variable you observe in response to the independent variable. After identifying the variables, connect them to the research objective.

An example of a research objective: to determine the effect of different doses of a novel antibiotic X on the growth rate of some resistant bacterial strains . In this example, the independent variable is the treatment (the different doses of antibiotic X), and the dependent variable is the growth rate of some bacterial strains.

5.State a research question

The next step is to identify a research question. A research question is the key question you want to answer in your proposed study ( Farrugia et al ., 2010 ). A research project can contain several research questions.

Keep in mind that your research question must meet the criteria of a good research question, including specific, feasible, interesting, novel, ethical, and relevant (Farrugia et al ., 2010).

In term of feasibility, use current methods and technology to answer the question during your limited time in the graduate school.

An example of a research question : What doses of the antibiotic X are effective to inhibit the growth of some resistant bacterial strains?

6.Formulate a research hypothesis

After developing the research objectives and question, the next step is to formulate a research hypothesis. A research hypothesis is a statement of a possible research outcome.

Some criteria of a good hypothesis ( Prasad et al., 2010 ; Al-Riyami, 2008):

• Logical, precise, and clear
• Testable with research experiments
• Makes a prediction about the relationship between variables

An example of a research hypothesis: The new antibiotic X will significantly prevent the growth of some resistant bacterial strains.

7.Explain research methods

The methodology section containing proposed experimental procedures is required for a research proposal. This section has the detailed plan to solve the research problem. It also reflects the research questions and hypothesis.

After reviewing the credibility and validity of your research methods, your advisory committee will make a decision about the fate of your proposed study. Therefore, when writing the methodology section, keep in mind that others should be able to follow each step in the research design to perform the same experiment.

In this section, you should include these following key points:

• Experimental design : This is the research strategy you choose to solve your problem.
• Samples : It contains the description about the samples for each group of treatment in the proposed study.
• Sample size : This information is important to make sure your sample size is sufficient.
• Materials : It contains the reagents and chemicals needed in the proposed study.
• Equipment : This has the list of equipment needed for the proposed study.
• Protocols of data collection : It contains the procedures needed before collecting your data.
• Ethical issues and consent forms : You may need to include these if your proposed studies will need human participants.
• Data analysis : This part should include the steps to analyze the data.
• Gantt chart : This chart contains tasks in each research project with the timeline for each task.

8.Include potential problems and alternative strategies

When performing your study, you may encounter potential problems. Therefore, include some of the possible problems that may occur during your study and the potential solution for them. By doing so, you can use your backup plan to solve each potential problem when the problems actually occurs.

9.Conduct and include a preliminary study

Perform and include the findings from a preliminary study in your research proposal. A preliminary study is a small-scale pilot study, conducted to test the experimental design ahead of time and increase the likelihood of success. By including the findings from a preliminary study, your advisory committee can visualize and assess the feasibility of your large-scale study.

10.State the potential impact and significance

In the last paragraph of your research proposal, include the potential impact and significance of your proposed study.

The potential impact of your study means the changes that your proposed research would make. These changes can be positive or negative, immediate or long-term, and direct or indirect.

Whereas, the potential significance of your study means the contribution that your proposed research would make. For example, you can explain its contribution to the knowledge in your field of study.

After putting it all together, evaluate the entire proposal to make sure it is strong and well written.

Al-Riyami, A. (2008). How to prepare a Research Proposal. Oman Medical Journal, 23(2), 66–69. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC32824...

Benedetti, A. (n.d.). Research Guides: Advanced Research Methods: Writing a Research Proposal. Guides.library.ucla.edu. Retrieved March 17, 2021, from https://guides.library.ucla.edu/c.php?g=180334&p=1289236.

Crawford, L. (2020). LITERATURE-BASED DEFINITIONS OF CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORKS. https://us.sagepub.com/sites/default/files/upm-assets/105274_book_item_105274.pdf.

Farrugia, P., Petrisor, B. A., Farrokhyar, F., & Bhandari, M. (2010). Practical tips for surgical research: Research questions, hypotheses and objectives. Canadian Journal of Surgery. Journal Canadien de Chirurgie, 53(4), 278–281. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC29120...

How to choose a research area. (2016, April 8). ASCB. https://www.ascb.org/careers/choose-research-area/

How to Select a Research Topic | University of Michigan-Flint. (2019). Umflint.edu; UM-Flint. https://www.umflint.edu/library/how-select-research-topic.

How To Write a Proposal | Science & Quantitative Reasoning. (n.d.). Science.yalecollege.yale.edu. Retrieved March 17, 2021, from https://science.yalecollege.yale.edu/fellowships/how-write-proposal.

Jacobs, R. L. (2013). Developing a dissertation research problem: A guide for doctoral students in human resource development and adult education. New Horizons in Adult Education and Human Resource Development, 25(3), 103–117. https://doi.org/10.1002/nha3.20034.

Kivunja, C. (2018). Distinguishing between Theory, Theoretical Framework, and Conceptual Framework: A Systematic Review of Lessons from the Field. International Journal of Higher Education, 7(6), 44. https://doi.org/10.5430/ijhe.v7n6p44.

LibGuides: Writing a Research Proposal: Parts of a Proposal. (2017). Illinois.edu. https://guides.library.illinois.edu/c.php?g=504643&p=3454882.

LibGuides: Research Process: Finding a Research Topic. (2019). Libguides.com. https://ncu.libguides.com/researchprocess/researchtopic.

LibGuides: Research Process: Literature Gap and Future Research. (2012). Libguides.com. https://ncu.libguides.com/researchprocess/literaturegap.

Pajares, F. (n.d.). THE ELEMENTS OF A PROPOSAL. https://www.uky.edu/~eushe2/Pajares/ElementsOfaProposal.pdf.

Prasad, S., Rao, A., & Rehani, E. (2001). DEVELOPING HYPOTHESES & RESEARCH QUESTIONS DEVELOPING HYPOTHESIS AND RESEARCH QUESTIONS. https://www.public.asu.edu/~kroel/www500/hypothesi...

Shardlow, M., Batista-Navarro, R., Thompson, P., Nawaz, R., McNaught, J., & Ananiadou, S. (2018). Identification of research hypotheses and new knowledge from scientific literature. BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making, 18(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12911-018-0639-1

Steps in Developing a Research Proposal. Open.lib.umn.edu; University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing edition, 2015. This edition adapted from a work originally produced in 2010 by a publisher who has requested that it not receive attribution. https://open.lib.umn.edu/writingforsuccess/chapter...

Vining, S. (2019, July 22). Dissertation Proposal | Genetics and Genomics. https://genetics.mcb.uconn.edu/dissertation-propos...

Writing a Research Plan. (2017, December 11). Science | AAAS. https://www.sciencemag.org/careers

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• Proposal Writing
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• Research Writing

A Guide to Writing Graduate Level Research Proposals

This is a student-focused guide to writing graduate level research proposals.It links out to several websites and videos which explain the process. 

The intent of this guide is to outline the potential uses and major sections of research proposals. This guide is aimed at graduate students early in their studies who do not have experience writing proposals at the graduate level. The supervisor’s preferences and requirements should always be considered first, in conjunction with requirements and deadlines of the School of Graduate and Postgraduate Studies found here thesis and project/paper . A research proposal is a proposed plan for conducting a research project which is used to ensure the focus and viability. Writing out the details of our ideas in a proposal requires planning the major steps involved. 

Situations when a Research Proposal is Used

The proposal is frequently used as a preliminary assignment for a term paper. It helps the professor make sure the plan and resources are appropriate, so that the paper has a good possibility of being successfully completed.

When approaching potential Master’s or PhD supervisors and/or committee members, a research proposal is presented to give them an idea of the project, so they can determine whether it aligns with their research interests. 

When already working with a supervisor and/or committee members, they can review the proposal and offer extremely valuable feedback. For this reason, graduate students are required to write a research proposal and have it reviewed and approved by their supervisor and readers or committee members prior to starting a major research project (MRP) Master's project/major paper or a master’s thesis Master's thesis . 

A formal research proposal is required in preparation for the PhD candidacy exam. This should be done according to the guidelines on PhD thesis and candidacy , the supervisor and committee members’ requirements. 

Research ethics approval is required prior to conducting research involving humans. A research proposal is included in a research ethics application. Ontario Tech University has a well-developed Research Ethics Board website with all the necessary information on the ethics approval process. 

Research proposals are frequently used in writing scholarship or grant applications, such as Graduate Student External Awards . Many external award applications require a research proposal which is used to evaluate the proposed research project for funding.  

Including a Rationale

A research proposal communicates the topic under investigation, how it will be undertaken, steps and resources needed, and potential outcomes. More specifically, it should include a rationale for the choice of methodological approach. The rationale should be based on books and peer-reviewed articles by current authors. Another option is to propose two distinct methodological approaches, so that the supervisory committee can provide feedback about which approach they find the most suitable. 

Finally, writing the proposal helps the researcher deepen their knowledge of the subject through writing and develop their argument. A research proposal should be convincing and persuasive. It should make readers think your proposal is worth supervising, approving, funding, and carrying out. 

Dr Cecile Badenhorst, professor in the Faculty of Education at Memorial University of Newfoundland explains the purpose of a research proposal. 

What is the PURPOSE of a research proposal

By C. Badenhorst, All Rights Reserved.

Detailed Outline of a Research Proposal

The Sections to Include in a Research Proposal

The research proposal should contain the following sections in sequential order (Badenhorst; 2019d; Reid et al., 2017): 

Introduction to the problem and background of the problem

Problem/Purpose statement and questions

Literature review

Methodology, data analysis and limitations

Research strategy (data collection)

Below Dr Cecile Badenhorst, a professor in the Faculty of Education at Memorial University of Newfoundland explains the elements of a research proposal. 

What goes into a Research Proposal

Major Sections in a Research Proposal

The following section describes each of the major sections in a research proposal in American Psychological Association APA referencing style . The specific formatting guidelines that are appropriate to your discipline (i.e., science, engineering, social sciences, education, or other) should be adhered to. Supervisors may also provide direction on the format style. The Ontario Tech Library provides guidance on citation according to different styles. 

[Title page]

Project working title and institution 

Name of principal investigator and/or student researcher

Names of members of the research team or supervisory committee

[Insert page break in the research proposal]

Abstract [75 to 150 words]

In the abstract, include a summary of the research proposal. Describe the goal of the project. Describe the anticipated participants. Describe the anticipated methodology and data collection methods. Explain how the data will be analyzed. Explain the potential implications of the potential results of the research project. Explain the importance of this project. 

Key words: Include several key words which might be useful in searching for this research project in future.

[Insert page break]

Introduction

The role of the introduction is to introduce the topic and purpose of the research. Explain the focus of the research and the motivation/rationale for the research. The researcher’s goals and orientation to the research should be explained. 

The introduction section should answer questions such as: Why should this research be conducted? Why should this research be conducted now? Why are you appropriate as the researcher? What will be accomplished with this research? What expectations do you have about this research? The introduction concludes with the inclusion of (a) working research question(s) and potential subquestions. 

Literature Review

The literature review section should provide the theoretical and research background to your topic. This section should illustrate what is known about this area and what the cornerstone authors have to say about this topic. The following clip explains the Purpose of the review of literature in the research proposal (Badenhorst, 2019b). Below, Dr. Cecile Badenhorst, professor in the Faculty of Education at Memorial University of Newfoundland, explains common components of the literature review in the research proposal (Badenhorst, 2019b). 

The topic of the review of literature should be divided into themes or chronological periods, as applicable. The themes are the subheadings in the main section of the review of literature. The following video clip about planning a literature review (Laurier Library, 2019) explains the process of finding themes and gaps in the literature, as well as strategies for undertaking the review of literature. Beneath each theme subheading, tell the story of that theme in your own words with frequent in-text citation for summary or paraphrase (Purdue Online Writing Lab, 2021). First, very briefly summarize the major studies, including the goal of the study, the participants (as applicable), the methodological approach or data collection method, the findings, and the implications. Next, present a synthesis of the findings. Discuss the findings of studies with similar findings while referring to the authors in an in-text citation by using two or more works in the same parentheses (Purdue Online Writing Lab, 2021). After that, critique any shortcomings or aspects of the research that may have been missed. 

In the final section of the review of literature, the gap in the research should be clearly indicated. Overtly state any aspects of the research topic that have been missed in the articles read for the review of literature. The following video clip from the UCLA library (2019) about Identifying Research Gaps in the literature. Follow these techniques to identify the area(s) with insufficient studies and highlight this in your proposal. 

 Finally, in the following video, Dr. Cecile Badenhorst, professor in the Faculty of Education at Memorial University of Newfoundland, gives a more detailed explanation of how to write the literature review section in a research proposal. 

Writing the literature Review for a research proposal

Methodology

In the methodology section, the writer details the approach to the research and the data collection. The headings and subheadings in the methodology section are explicitly stated. Clear rationales for the methodological approach and data collection choices are given. The following points should be explained sequentially, using headings and subheadings, as appropriate to the subject. 

Paradigm 

Use only for Faculties of Social Science and Humanities and Education. State the proposed paradigm and how it supports the proposed research question(s). Integrate references to sources discussing your paradigm here. 

The Role of the Researcher

This is a statement explaining the researcher’s positionality. This subsection is for qualitative research only. 

Proposed Participants

In this section, the researcher describes in detail the participants who will be recruited for the study, including information such as age range, gender, occupation. The researcher should consult the guidelines of the Ontario Tech REB regarding eligible participants.

Inclusion/exclusion criteria.

Here, the researcher explains the criteria for inclusion as a participant in the study, e.g, age or occupation. 

Recruitment strategies.

Here, the researcher explains the strategies that will be used to recruit the participants in the study. Will posters be used? Will word of mouth be used? Will ads be placed in a publication?

Target number of participants.

In this subsection, the researcher explains the number of participants they will ideally recruit for the study and includes a rationale. 

Data Collection Procedures

This section includes a rationale for the data collection procedures drawing on current literature in the field and methodological sources. Also included in this section are the number of times data is collected, the format used, as well as specifically when, where, and how the data collection will occur. The researcher should consult the guidelines of the Ontario Tech REB regarding data collection (University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2022).

Data Management 

This section explains in detail the procedures to be followed for storing and analyzing the data collected. The researcher should consult the guidelines of the Ontario Tech REB regarding data storage (University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2022).

Video Explaining the Methodology Section

In this video, Dr Cecile Badenhorst, professor in the Faculty of Education at Memorial University of Newfoundland, explains how to write the methodology section in the research proposal. 

Writing the methods/METHODOLOGY sections in a research proposal

Ethical Considerations

In this section, clearly address any ethical considerations that have arisen in this proposed research project and explain how they will be dealt with. The following ethical considerations should be addressed sequentially, with clear rationales given: 

Are you doing research with humans? 

If yes, have you contacted the Research Ethics Board   about making an application for ethics approval (University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2022)? 

The research proposal includes ethical procedures in accordance with the  Research Ethics Board requirements (University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2022). 

Findings, Discussion, and Limitations

It is not necessary to include the sections titled Findings, Discussion, and Limitations as the study has not yet been conducted.

In the conclusion section, the researcher should explain why the proposed research would be valuable to the academic community. One could potentially mention the different communities it could positively affect.

In the references section, include a list of cornerstone works in this field. These works will have been discussed in the other sections. The references listed in the research proposal are the beginning of the reading list for the thesis or research project. The citation style specified by the supervisor should be followed, with APA, IEEE, Vancouver being the most common. If the researcher does not know how to reference a source, it is completely acceptable to ask questions of the supervisor or to make an appointment with a writing specialist . 

It is very important to use citation management software to keep your many sources organized and to facilitate citation and referencing.  The Ontario Tech library has information available about citation management tools (University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2022b). You can also make an appointment with a Subject Librarian in your area to discuss this further. 

The appendices should include a draft of the timeline for project completion and graduation, and a budget, if applicable. Include any instruments, software, equipment, or books needed to complete the project. For example, if the project entails using specialized software that is not known to the potential audience of the proposal, include information about it here. Finally, ethics approval documents (consent forms, information letters, recruitment posters, recruitment emails) should be included in an appendix. Samples are available on the Ontario Tech Research Ethics Board site Resources   (University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2022).

Badenhorst, C. (2019a, February 11). Writing the methodology sections in a research proposal [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/dvwwMsOp-FY  

Badenhorst, C. (2019b, February 13). Writing the literature review for a research proposal [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/t0YWbxkgZ_s  

Badenhorst, C. (2019c, February 28). What is the purpose of a research proposal? [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/4jQd-1F1pWk  

Badenhorst, C. (2019d, February 28). What goes into a research proposal [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWWEWizA-XM

Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (4th edition). Sage.

Laurier Library. (2019, March 29). Planning a literature review [video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/FEhRApOQ_EQ  

Purdue Online Writing Lab. (2021). In-text citations: The basics. Purdue University. https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/in_text_citations_the_basics.html  

Purdue Online Writing Lab. (2021). In-Text Citations: Author/Authors. Purdue University. https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/in_text_citations_author_authors.html  

Reid, C., Greaves, L., & Kirby, S. (2017). Experience, research, social change: Critical methods (3rd edition). University of Toronto Press.

UCLA Library. (2019, October 15). Identifying research gaps [video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/--jYdyFXGj8  

University of Ontario Institute of Technology. (2022). Welcome to the Ontario Tech Research Ethics Board. Research Ethics Board. https://research.ontariotechu.ca/reb/index.php  

University of Ontario Institute of Technology. (2022b, March 10). Citation management tools. Citation Management. https://guides.library.ontariotechu.ca/citation/management  

This work is a creation of the Ontario Tech University Student and Learning Centre and is subject to a CC-BY-NC license unless otherwise noted.

Version History

Master Thesis Proposal

Proposal maker.

Thesis proposal is considered as the most important proposal when it comes to the academic system. Your thesis proposal becomes a guide to which your academic and career usually depends. The more it is being planned well, the more you will get good results or findings. One of the hardest part is when you start writing for a thesis proposal to decide for an appropriate topic. Writing thesis proposal is quite not easy but it surely prepares you to become worthy professionals someday. In this article, you will be able to know more about making a master thesis proposal.

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What is a Master Thesis Proposal?

Every school year for every graduating student, the goal is to complete a thesis which allows you to identify a research topic, formulate hypothesis, provide a background or rationale about your study, look for appropriate methods and collect data to get a result.

The purpose of thesis proposal is to present a topic that you think is essential in addressing a particular problem, plan in an organized manner regarding ways on how to collect and gather data to look for a possible solution and to decide what method is best for the data. You may also consider having thesis proposals to train you on how to improve your proposal writing because any degree program would really require you to do one.

Usually, most individuals or professionals are interested in the process on how the thesis proposal is being structured. All you need to do is to present a clear data and idea to relate your thesis idea into another existing study, justify its importance, describe how it is being investigated and to carry out a good conclusion.

Structure of Thesis Proposal

You master thesis proposal should have the following elements:

Title Page – this contains the descriptive title, name of the author, educational institution, department, name of your mentor and his or her institution and the date of delivery.

Abstract – abstract writing involves this is a short summary which contains up to a minimum of two hundred (200) words. It introduces an issue and would let you make a statement about it. It also contains your implication of your work.

Table of Contents – this is where you can see heading and subheadings incorporated with page numbers.

Introduction – this usually play the role in trying to catch you readers’ attention. In this area, you will be going to provide an explanation of the rationale. It should usually begin by discussing from the general perspective down to the specific ones until you reach to the research questions. This should be understandable to the readers.

Thesis Statement – state your thesis statement only in short sentences. This can be in a form of a question, statement or hypothesis. It should be able to capture the essence of your entire study.

Approach/Method used – this describes the approach and materials used and procedures. You should be able to include techniques, graphs and calculations, limitations and assumptions. Do not discuss yet your findings in the section.

Results and Discussion – present the information about your results and how are they going to fit in your theoretical framework.

Plan and Time Table – describe what are your plans until you are able to complete your entire thesis. List down your projects and their respective deadlines and the challenges that you have to overcome.

Implications – write down the list of knowledge that you think your audience still do not know anything about.

Reference – include a reference list on the last part of your proposal. This should include the citations of your concepts, text and data that you do not own. As much as possible, do not use footnotes and your references should be listed in alphabetical order.

How long is a thesis proposal?

It is approximately eight (8) pages long.

Does a thesis proposal requires a statement of the significance of the project?

Every type of research study requires a statement or a paragraph that consists of the study’s significance.

Does a thesis proposal requires a review of the related literature?

Yes. The review of related literature are the existing studies that you must incorporate in your thesis to show accuracy and support.

Generally, students really give serious consideration and effort when they begin writing a thesis. It should be made originally which helps in enhancing the skills good for every students’ expertise. Thesis proposal is your guide to writing an effective and well-written thesis  or research study.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Generate a proposal for a new school recycling program

Compose a proposal for a school field trip to a science museum.