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What Is A Research Proposal?
Plain Language Explainer With Examples + Free Template
By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2020 (Updated April 2023)
Overview: Research Proposal Basics
- What a research proposal is
- What a research proposal needs to cover
- How to structure your research proposal
- Example /sample proposals
- Proposal writing FAQs
- Key takeaways & additional resources
What is a research proposal?
Simply put, a research proposal is a structured, formal document that explains what you plan to research (your research topic), why it’s worth researching (your justification), and how you plan to investigate it (your methodology).Â
The purpose of the research proposal (its job, so to speak) is to convince  your research supervisor, committee or university that your research is suitable  (for the requirements of the degree program) and manageable  (given the time and resource constraints you will face).Â
The most important word here is “ convince ” – in other words, your research proposal needs to sell  your research idea (to whoever is going to approve it). If it doesn’t convince them (of its suitability and manageability), you’ll need to revise and resubmit . This will cost you valuable time, which will either delay the start of your research or eat into its time allowance (which is bad news).Â
What goes into a research proposal?
A good dissertation or thesis proposal needs to cover the “ what “, “ why ” and” how ” of the proposed study. Let’s look at each of these attributes in a little more detail:
Your proposal needs to clearly articulate your research topic . This needs to be specific and unambiguous . Your research topic should make it clear exactly what you plan to research and in what context. Here’s an example of a well-articulated research topic:
An investigation into the factors which impact female Generation Y consumer’s likelihood to promote a specific makeup brand to their peers: a British context
As you can see, this topic is extremely clear. From this one line we can see exactly:
- What’s being investigated – factors that make people promote or advocate for a brand of a specific makeup brand
- Who it involves – female Gen-Y consumers
- In what context – the United Kingdom
Need a helping hand?
As we touched on earlier, it’s not good enough to simply propose a research topic – you need to justify why your topic is original . In other words, what makes it unique ? What gap in the current literature does it fill? If it’s simply a rehash of the existing research, it’s probably not going to get approval – it needs to be fresh.
But, originality  alone is not enough. Once you’ve ticked that box, you also need to justify why your proposed topic is important . In other words, what value will it add to the world if you achieve your research aims?
As an example, let’s look at the sample research topic we mentioned earlier (factors impacting brand advocacy). In this case, if the research could uncover relevant factors, these findings would be very useful to marketers in the cosmetics industry, and would, therefore, have commercial value . That is a clear justification for the research.
So, when you’re crafting your research proposal, remember that it’s not enough for a topic to simply be unique. It needs to be useful and value-creating – and you need to convey that value in your proposal. If you’re struggling to find a research topic that makes the cut, watch our video covering how to find a research topic .
It’s all good and well to have a great topic that’s original and valuable, but you’re not going to convince anyone to approve it without discussing the practicalities – in other words:
- How will you actually undertake your research (i.e., your methodology)?
- Is your research methodology appropriate given your research aims?
- Is your approach manageable given your constraints (time, money, etc.)?
While it’s generally not expected that you’ll have a fully fleshed-out methodology at the proposal stage, you’ll likely still need to provide a high-level overview of your research methodology . Here are some important questions you’ll need to address in your research proposal:
- Will you take a qualitative , quantitative or mixed -method approach?
- What sampling strategy will you adopt?
- How will you collect your data (e.g., interviews , surveys, etc)?
- How will you analyse your data (e.g., descriptive and inferential statistics , content analysis, discourse analysis, etc, .)?
- What potential limitations will your methodology carry?
So, be sure to give some thought to the practicalities of your research and have at least a basic methodological plan before you start writing up your proposal. If this all sounds rather intimidating, the video below provides a good introduction to research methodology and the key choices you’ll need to make.
How To Structure A Research Proposal
Now that we’ve covered the key points that need to be addressed in a proposal, you may be wondering, “ But how is a research proposal structured? “.
While the exact structure and format required for a research proposal differs from university to university, there are four âessential ingredientsâ that commonly make up the structure of a research proposal:
- A rich introduction and background to the proposed research
- An initial literature review covering the existing research
- An overview of the proposed research methodology
- A discussion regarding the practicalities (project plans, timelines, etc.)
In the video below, we unpack each of these four sections, step by step.
Research Proposal Examples/Samples
In the video below, we provide a detailed walkthrough of two successful research proposals (Master’s and PhD-level), as well as our popular free proposal template.
Proposal Writing FAQs
How long should a research proposal be.
This varies tremendously, depending on the university, the field of study (e.g., social sciences vs natural sciences), and the level of the degree (e.g. undergraduate, Masters or PhD) – so it’s always best to check with your university what their specific requirements are before you start planning your proposal.
As a rough guide, a formal research proposal at Masters-level often ranges between 2000-3000 words, while a PhD-level proposal can be far more detailed, ranging from 5000-8000 words. In some cases, a rough outline of the topic is all that’s needed, while in other cases, universities expect a very detailed proposal that essentially forms the first three chapters of the dissertation or thesis.
The takeaway – be sure to check with your institution before you start writing.
How do I choose a topic for my research proposal?
Finding a good research topic is a process that involves multiple steps. We cover the topic ideation process in this video post.
How do I write a literature review for my proposal?
While you typically won’t need a comprehensive literature review at the proposal stage, you still need to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the key literature and are able to synthesise it. We explain the literature review process here.
How do I create a timeline and budget for my proposal?
We explain how to craft a project plan/timeline and budget in Research Proposal Bootcamp .
Which referencing format should I use in my research proposal?
The expectations and requirements regarding formatting and referencing vary from institution to institution. Therefore, you’ll need to check this information with your university.
What common proposal writing mistakes do I need to look out for?
We’ve create a video post about some of the most common mistakes students make when writing a proposal – you can access that here . If you’re short on time, here’s a quick summary:
- The research topic is too broad (or just poorly articulated).
- The research aims, objectives and questions donât align.
- The research topic is not well justified.
- The study has a weak theoretical foundation.
- The research design is not well articulated well enough.
- Poor writing and sloppy presentation.
- Poor project planning and risk management.
- Not following the universityâs specific criteria.
Key Takeaways & Additional Resources
As you write up your research proposal, remember the all-important core purpose:Â to convince . Your research proposal needs to sell your study in terms of suitability and viability. So, focus on crafting a convincing narrative to ensure a strong proposal.
At the same time, pay close attention to your university’s requirements. While we’ve covered the essentials here, every institution has its own set of expectations and it’s essential that you follow these to maximise your chances of approval.
By the way, we’ve got plenty more resources to help you fast-track your research proposal. Here are some of our most popular resources to get you started:
- Proposal Writing 101 : A Introductory Webinar
- Research Proposal Bootcamp : The Ultimate Online Course
- Template : A basic template to help you craft your proposal
If you’re looking for 1-on-1 support with your research proposal, be sure to check out our private coaching service , where we hold your hand through the proposal development process (and the entire research journey), step by step.
Ace Your Research Proposal
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54 Comments
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I would be interested in getting some coaching.
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In view of the above, I welcome more coaching.
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Bundle of thanks to you for the research proposal guide it was really good and useful if it is possible please send me the sample of research proposal
You’re most welcome. We don’t have any research proposals that we can share (the students own the intellectual property), but you might find our research proposal template useful: https://gradcoach.com/research-proposal-template/
Cheruiyot Moses Kipyegon
Thanks alot. It was an eye opener that came timely enough before my imminent proposal defense. Thanks, again
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I am an undergraduate student (First Degree) preparing to write my project,this video and explanation had shed more light to me thanks for your efforts keep it up.
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Thank you. This is a great insight. I am a student preparing for a PhD program. I am requested to write my Research Proposal as part of what I am required to submit before my unconditional admission. I am grateful having listened to this video which will go a long way in helping me to actually choose a topic of interest and not just any topic as well as to narrow down the topic and be specific about it. I indeed need more of this especially as am trying to choose a topic suitable for a DBA am about embarking on. Thank you once more. The video is indeed helpful.
Have learnt a lot just at the right time. Thank you so much.
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Hi. For my MSc medical education research, please evaluate this topic for me: Training Needs Assessment of Faculty in Medical Training Institutions in Kericho and Bomet Counties
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Great! I liked your tutoring on how to find a research topic and how to write a research proposal. Precise and concise. Thank you very much. Will certainly share this with my students. Research made simple indeed.
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I need any research proposal
Thank you for these videos. I will need chapter by chapter assistance in writing my MSc dissertation
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interesting session this has equipped me with knowledge as i head for exams in an hour’s time, am sure i get A++
This article was most informative and easy to understand. I now have a good idea of how to write my research proposal.
Thank you very much.
Wow, this literature is very resourceful and interesting to read. I enjoyed it and I intend reading it every now then.
Thank you for the clarity
Thank you. Very helpful.
Thank you very much for this essential piece. I need 1o1 coaching, unfortunately, your service is not available in my country. Anyways, a very important eye-opener. I really enjoyed it. A thumb up to Gradcoach
What is JAM? Please explain.
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thank you for the video but i need a written example
So far , So good!
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Purpose of Research Proposal + Definition, Importance, & Writing Steps
Few students fully get the meaning and the importance of a research proposal. If you have a good research proposal, it means that you are going to carry out adequate research. A low-quality research proposal may be the reason your research will never start.
The main purpose of a research proposal is to convince the reader of your project’s value . You will have to prove that you have a plan for your work and that your project will be successful. Your reader has to be sure that it is not another useless piece of writing, but a profound research work that will be extremely important for science.
Want to learn more about the reasons why it is important to have a research plan? Continue reading this article by Custom-writing.org experts!
- đ¤ Definition
- đŻ Purpose & Importance
â Importance of Research Proposal
- đŁ Writing Steps
đ References
đ¤ what is research proposal.
A research proposal is a document that proposes a particular research project, usually in academia or sciences, intending to get funding from an institution. A typical research proposal addresses a range of points:
- A research question(s) that the proposed research seeks to answer
- The data & methods that will be used to answer the questions
- The time and financial costs for the research
- The prior research in the field
- Potential benefits for the sponsoring institution
Research proposals are usually required when one plans to write a thesis, dissertation, or research paper. The format is similar to that of a research paper, with an introduction, a literature review, a methods section, and a conclusion.
đŻ Purpose of Research Proposal
The primary goal of any research proposal is to convince a sponsoring institution that a particular research project is worthwhile. The document usually aims to cover the aspects below.
In other words, the purpose of a research proposal is to answer the following questions about your research project:
- What do you want to achieve? Try to be as clear as possible in defining the research problem and what aspect of it you intend to investigate.
- Why do you want to do it? You must thoroughly analyze the literature and present compelling evidence that the topic is worth researching.
- How are you going to do it? Make sure you have the time, finances, and competence to complete what you want to accomplish.
A research proposal is important for several reasons:
- It helps identify the research focus. A research proposal defines the topic, outlines methods, and clarifies your research objectives.
- It assists in research planning. You can use a research proposal as an overview of the work to be done, making the research process smoother and easier.
- It allows researchers to secure funding. Research proposals are essential for getting money to fund research projects. These documents help persuade internal and external agencies of the project’s significance and feasibility.
- It demonstrates the student’s communication skills. The way a proposal is worded and structured shows the student’s ability to organize their thoughts and communicate complex ideas.
- It shows the researcher’s competence. The research proposal demonstrates a scholarâs ability to select appropriate methods, justify the choice of topic and methodology, conduct a literature review, and address ethical and budget considerations.
đŁ Making a Research Plan in 10 Steps
Research proposal topics.
- A research proposal on staff attitudes to physician orders for life-sustaining treatment (POLST).
- Research the aspects of corporate social responsibility integration for multinational companies.
- Explore the efficacy of speaker recognition technology for the crime rate reduction. Â
- Analyze the peculiarities of Nigeriaâs healthcare system and the problems it faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Marketing research proposal: study the skill deficiencies of the students of the current occupational training programs and their influence on the job perspectives. Â
- Write a research proposal on the examination of asthma risk factors for African immigrants.
- Research proposal on the connection between hypertension and chronic kidney disease .
- Conduct research on cyber terrorism as a political weapon.
- Explore the effective programs for asthma education among adolescents.
- Research proposal on the controversy of the second amendment.
- Examine the impact of Nokiaâs marketing strategy on its product popularity and the companyâs share price.
- Analyze the current situation of VEGA medical center and the necessity to implement sustainable change. Â
- Formulate a research proposal on the sustainable innovation strategy implementation methods for logistics companies.
- Research proposal on homeland security in the United States .
- Study the most efficient ways to implement a harm reduction approach in healthcare practice.
- Research the efficacy of current procedures of early ventilator-associated pneumonia diagnostics.
- Explore and compare the consumer behavior of generation Y in the USA and China.
- Research proposal on the usefulness of the mobile app English at Hands implementation in educational establishmentsâ curricula.
- Justice in healthcare: a research proposal .
- Analyze whether watching movies can be considered an effective method of foreign language practice.
- Examine the most widespread reasons for medical personnel shortage in low-income countries. Â
- Research proposal on the current state of McDonaldâs company .
- Study the effect of lowering high-calorie food consumption on human health and life quality. Â
- Write a research proposal on the effect of technology on human health and living conditions. Â
- Explore the connection between congestive heart failure and air travel.Â
- Study the role of government in enhancing the sustainable innovation strategy implementation rates.Â
- Research the use of BMP in improving e-government security.
- Analyze the necessity of health teaching to middle-aged women.
- Research proposal on the online buying site ViaBela.
- Examine the current methods of suicide prevention among geriatric patients.
- Write a research proposal on the investigation of the COVID-19 lockdown on people with mental health issues.
- Explore and compare consumersâ corporate social responsibility awareness in different countries. Â
- Study the use of the national DNA database for law enforcement.
- Research the specifics and the ways to eliminate narcoterrorism in Mexico.
- Examine the contemporary ways to prevent Clostridium difficile infection .
- Research proposal on the advantages and disadvantages of skin-to-skin contact after labor.
- Explore the reasons for inadequate nurse staffing and its impact on the level of healthcare service.  Â
- Anasarca and acute renal failure: a research proposal .
- Analyze whether telephone follow-ups will help to improve the satisfaction and life quality of diabetic patients.
- Write a research proposal on the safety and efficiency of fad diets. Â
- Research proposal on capital punishment application .
- Examine the benefits and drawbacks of wireless technologies for modern business organizations.
- Research the reasons that influence the participation rates of African Americans in clinical trials.
- Study how motivational interviews can reduce childhood obesity rates. Â
- Research proposal on the role of e-marketing strategies in business development. Â
- Analyze the connection between critical thinking and mass media literacy.
- Explore the benefits of medicine computerization.
- Research proposal on green supply chain management .
- Examine the impact of computer technology development on criminology.Â
- Conduct intersectionality research on prejudices against Asian American women.
- Writing a Research Proposal (USC Library Guides)
- Writing a research proposal – Research & Learning Online
- How to write a research proposal? – NCBI
- How to Write a Research Proposal – University of Birmingham
- How To Write an Academic Research Proposal
- How to write a research proposal (Yale College)
- How to write a research proposal for a strong PhD application (University of Sydney)
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Sup guys! I need definitions about research defined by scholars and year of publication plzđ
Very informative, as for social science student. đ
Thanks a lot dear!! Many information gained
Thanks it’s so much easier and helpful who are work first time in research proposal like me It’s interesting but I can’t decided what topic I researching for my collage project or which topic is better đ so I need a guide line or instructions for choosing a good topic
thank you for our explanation about research proposal but i want to know the aims or purpose of research proposal
This is informative and inspiring paper for međđ
very good concept on research proposal. thank you
useful data
How to Write a Research Proposal: (with Examples & Templates)
Table of Contents
Before conducting a study, a research proposal should be created that outlines researchersâ plans and methodology and is submitted to the concerned evaluating organization or person. Creating a research proposal is an important step to ensure that researchers are on track and are moving forward as intended. A research proposal can be defined as a detailed plan or blueprint for the proposed research that you intend to undertake. It provides readers with a snapshot of your project by describing what you will investigate, why it is needed, and how you will conduct the research. Â
Your research proposal should aim to explain to the readers why your research is relevant and original, that you understand the context and current scenario in the field, have the appropriate resources to conduct the research, and that the research is feasible given the usual constraints. Â
This article will describe in detail the purpose and typical structure of a research proposal , along with examples and templates to help you ace this step in your research journey. Â
What is a Research Proposal ? Â
A research proposalš ,²  can be defined as a formal report that describes your proposed research, its objectives, methodology, implications, and other important details. Research proposals are the framework of your research and are used to obtain approvals or grants to conduct the study from various committees or organizations. Consequently, research proposals should convince readers of your studyâs credibility, accuracy, achievability, practicality, and reproducibility. Â
With research proposals , researchers usually aim to persuade the readers, funding agencies, educational institutions, and supervisors to approve the proposal. To achieve this, the report should be well structured with the objectives written in clear, understandable language devoid of jargon. A well-organized research proposal conveys to the readers or evaluators that the writer has thought out the research plan meticulously and has the resources to ensure timely completion. Â
Purpose of Research Proposals Â
A research proposal is a sales pitch and therefore should be detailed enough to convince your readers, who could be supervisors, ethics committees, universities, etc., that what youâre proposing has merit and is feasible . Research proposals can help students discuss their dissertation with their faculty or fulfill course requirements and also help researchers obtain funding. A well-structured proposal instills confidence among readers about your ability to conduct and complete the study as proposed. Â
Research proposals can be written for several reasons:Âł Â
- To describe the importance of research in the specific topic Â
- Address any potential challenges you may encounter Â
- Showcase knowledge in the field and your ability to conduct a study Â
- Apply for a role at a research institute Â
- Convince a research supervisor or university that your research can satisfy the requirements of a degree program Â
- Highlight the importance of your research to organizations that may sponsor your project Â
- Identify implications of your project and how it can benefit the audience Â
What Goes in a Research Proposal? Â Â
Research proposals should aim to answer the three basic questionsâwhat, why, and how. Â
The What question should be answered by describing the specific subject being researched. It should typically include the objectives, the cohort details, and the location or setting. Â
The Why question should be answered by describing the existing scenario of the subject, listing unanswered questions, identifying gaps in the existing research, and describing how your study can address these gaps, along with the implications and significance. Â
The How question should be answered by describing the proposed research methodology, data analysis tools expected to be used, and other details to describe your proposed methodology. Â
Research Proposal Example Â
Here is a research proposal sample template (with examples) from the University of Rochester Medical Center. 4 The sections in all research proposals are essentially the same although different terminology and other specific sections may be used depending on the subject. Â
Structure of a Research Proposal Â
If you want to know how to make a research proposal impactful, include the following components:š Â
1. Introduction Â
This section provides a background of the study, including the research topic, what is already known about it and the gaps, and the significance of the proposed research. Â
2. Literature review Â
This section contains descriptions of all the previous relevant studies pertaining to the research topic. Every study cited should be described in a few sentences, starting with the general studies to the more specific ones. This section builds on the understanding gained by readers in the Introduction section and supports it by citing relevant prior literature, indicating to readers that you have thoroughly researched your subject. Â
3. Objectives Â
Once the background and gaps in the research topic have been established, authors must now state the aims of the research clearly. Hypotheses should be mentioned here. This section further helps readers understand what your studyâs specific goals are. Â
4. Research design and methodology Â
Here, authors should clearly describe the methods they intend to use to achieve their proposed objectives. Important components of this section include the population and sample size, data collection and analysis methods and duration, statistical analysis software, measures to avoid bias (randomization, blinding), etc. Â
5. Ethical considerations Â
This refers to the protection of participantsâ rights, such as the right to privacy, right to confidentiality, etc. Researchers need to obtain informed consent and institutional review approval by the required authorities and mention this clearly for transparency. Â
6. Budget/funding Â
Researchers should prepare their budget and include all expected expenditures. An additional allowance for contingencies such as delays should also be factored in. Â
7. Appendices Â
This section typically includes information that supports the research proposal and may include informed consent forms, questionnaires, participant information, measurement tools, etc. Â
8. Citations Â
Always ensure to cite all sources referred to while writing the proposal. Any citation method could be used as long as it is consistent and adheres to a specific format.
Important Tips for Writing a Research Proposal Â
Writing a research proposal begins much before the actual task of writing. Planning the research proposal structure and content is an important stage, which if done efficiently, can help you seamlessly transition into the writing stage. 3,5 Â
The Planning Stage Â
- Manage your time efficiently. Plan to have the draft version ready at least two weeks before your deadline and the final version at least two to three days before the deadline.
- What is the primary objective of your research? Â
- Will your research address any existing gap? Â
- What is the impact of your proposed research? Â
- Do people outside your field find your research applicable in other areas? Â
- If your research is unsuccessful, would there still be other useful research outcomes? Â
 The Writing Stage Â
- Create an outline with main section headings that are typically used. Â
- Focus only on writing and getting your points across without worrying about the format of the research proposal , grammar, punctuation, etc. These can be fixed during the subsequent passes. Add details to each section heading you created in the beginning. Â
- Ensure your sentences are concise and use plain language. A research proposal usually contains about 2,000 to 4,000 words or four to seven pages. Â
- Donât use too many technical terms and abbreviations assuming that the readers would know them. Define the abbreviations and technical terms. Â
- Ensure that the entire content is readable. Avoid using long paragraphs because they affect the continuity in reading. Break them into shorter paragraphs and introduce some white space for readability. Â
- Focus on only the major research issues and cite sources accordingly. Donât include generic information or their sources in the literature review. Â
- Proofread your final document to ensure there are no grammatical errors so readers can enjoy a seamless, uninterrupted read. Â
- Use academic, scholarly language because it brings formality into a document. Â
- Ensure that your title is created using the keywords in the document and is neither too long and specific nor too short and general. Â
- Cite all sources appropriately to avoid plagiarism. Â
- Make sure that you follow guidelines, if provided. This includes rules as simple as using a specific font or a hyphen or en dash between numerical ranges. Â
- Ensure that youâve answered all questions requested by the evaluating authority. Â
Key Takeaways Â
Hereâs a summary of the main points about research proposals discussed in the previous sections: Â
- A research proposal is a document that outlines the details of a proposed study and is created by researchers to submit to evaluators who could be research institutions, universities, faculty, etc. Â
- Research proposals are usually about 2,000-4,000 words long, but this depends on the evaluating authorityâs guidelines. Â
- A good research proposal ensures that youâve done your background research and assessed the feasibility of the research. Â
- Research proposals have the following main sectionsâintroduction, literature review, objectives, methodology, ethical considerations, and budget. Â
Frequently Asked Questions Â
Q1. How is a research proposal evaluated? Â
A1. In general, most evaluators, including universities, broadly use the following criteria to evaluate research proposals . 6 Â
- Significance âDoes the research address any important subject or issue, which may or may not be specific to the evaluator or university? Â
- Content and design âIs the proposed methodology appropriate to answer the research question? Are the objectives clear and well aligned with the proposed methodology? Â
- Sample size and selection âIs the target population or cohort size clearly mentioned? Is the sampling process used to select participants randomized, appropriate, and free of bias? Â
- Timing âAre the proposed data collection dates mentioned clearly? Is the project feasible given the specified resources and timeline? Â
- Data management and dissemination âWho will have access to the data? What is the plan for data analysis? Â
Q2. What is the difference between the Introduction and Literature Review sections in a research proposal ? Â
A2. The Introduction or Background section in a research proposal sets the context of the study by describing the current scenario of the subject and identifying the gaps and need for the research. A Literature Review, on the other hand, provides references to all prior relevant literature to help corroborate the gaps identified and the research need. Â
Q3. How long should a research proposal be? Â
A3. Research proposal lengths vary with the evaluating authority like universities or committees and also the subject. Hereâs a table that lists the typical research proposal lengths for a few universities. Â
Q4. What are the common mistakes to avoid in a research proposal ? Â
A4. Here are a few common mistakes that you must avoid while writing a research proposal . 7 Â
- No clear objectives: Objectives should be clear, specific, and measurable for the easy understanding among readers. Â
- Incomplete or unconvincing background research: Background research usually includes a review of the current scenario of the particular industry and also a review of the previous literature on the subject. This helps readers understand your reasons for undertaking this research because you identified gaps in the existing research. Â
- Overlooking project feasibility: The project scope and estimates should be realistic considering the resources and time available. Â
- Neglecting the impact and significance of the study: In a research proposal , readers and evaluators look for the implications or significance of your research and how it contributes to the existing research. This information should always be included. Â
- Unstructured format of a research proposal : A well-structured document gives confidence to evaluators that you have read the guidelines carefully and are well organized in your approach, consequently affirming that you will be able to undertake the research as mentioned in your proposal. Â
- Ineffective writing style: The language used should be formal and grammatically correct. If required, editors could be consulted, including AI-based tools such as Paperpal , to refine the research proposal structure and language. Â
Thus, a research proposal is an essential document that can help you promote your research and secure funds and grants for conducting your research. Consequently, it should be well written in clear language and include all essential details to convince the evaluators of your ability to conduct the research as proposed. Â
This article has described all the important components of a research proposal and has also provided tips to improve your writing style. We hope all these tips will help you write a well-structured research proposal to ensure receipt of grants or any other purpose. Â
References Â
- Sudheesh K, Duggappa DR, Nethra SS. How to write a research proposal? Indian J Anaesth. 2016;60(9):631-634. Accessed July 15, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5037942/ Â
- Writing research proposals. Harvard College Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships. Harvard University. Accessed July 14, 2024. https://uraf.harvard.edu/apply-opportunities/app-components/essays/research-proposals Â
- What is a research proposal? Plus how to write one. Indeed website. Accessed July 17, 2024. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/research-proposal Â
- Research proposal template. University of Rochester Medical Center. Accessed July 16, 2024. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/MediaLibraries/URMCMedia/pediatrics/research/documents/Research-proposal-Template.pdf Â
- Tips for successful proposal writing. Johns Hopkins University. Accessed July 17, 2024. https://research.jhu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Tips-for-Successful-Proposal-Writing.pdf Â
- Formal review of research proposals. Cornell University. Accessed July 18, 2024. https://irp.dpb.cornell.edu/surveys/survey-assessment-review-group/research-proposals Â
- 7 Mistakes you must avoid in your research proposal. Aveksana (via LinkedIn). Accessed July 17, 2024. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/7-mistakes-you-must-avoid-your-research-proposal-aveksana-cmtwf/ Â
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Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Assignments
- Annotated Bibliography
- Analyzing a Scholarly Journal Article
- Group Presentations
- Dealing with Nervousness
- Using Visual Aids
- Grading Someone Else's Paper
- Types of Structured Group Activities
- Group Project Survival Skills
- Leading a Class Discussion
- Multiple Book Review Essay
- Reviewing Collected Works
- Writing a Case Analysis Paper
- Writing a Case Study
- About Informed Consent
- Writing Field Notes
- Writing a Policy Memo
- Writing a Reflective Paper
- Writing a Research Proposal
- Generative AI and Writing
- Acknowledgments
The goal of a research proposal is twofold: to present and justify the need to study a research problem and to present the practical ways in which the proposed study should be conducted. The design elements and procedures for conducting research are governed by standards of the predominant discipline in which the problem resides, therefore, the guidelines for research proposals are more exacting and less formal than a general project proposal. Research proposals contain extensive literature reviews. They must provide persuasive evidence that a need exists for the proposed study. In addition to providing a rationale, a proposal describes detailed methodology for conducting the research consistent with requirements of the professional or academic field and a statement on anticipated outcomes and benefits derived from the study's completion.
Krathwohl, David R. How to Prepare a Dissertation Proposal: Suggestions for Students in Education and the Social and Behavioral Sciences . Syracuse, NY: Syracuse University Press, 2005.
How to Approach Writing a Research Proposal
Your professor may assign the task of writing a research proposal for the following reasons:
- Develop your skills in thinking about and designing a comprehensive research study;
- Learn how to conduct a comprehensive review of the literature to determine that the research problem has not been adequately addressed or has been answered ineffectively and, in so doing, become better at locating pertinent scholarship related to your topic;
- Improve your general research and writing skills;
- Practice identifying the logical steps that must be taken to accomplish one's research goals;
- Critically review, examine, and consider the use of different methods for gathering and analyzing data related to the research problem; and,
- Nurture a sense of inquisitiveness within yourself and to help see yourself as an active participant in the process of conducting scholarly research.
A proposal should contain all the key elements involved in designing a completed research study, with sufficient information that allows readers to assess the validity and usefulness of your proposed study. The only elements missing from a research proposal are the findings of the study and your analysis of those findings. Finally, an effective proposal is judged on the quality of your writing and, therefore, it is important that your proposal is coherent, clear, and compelling.
Regardless of the research problem you are investigating and the methodology you choose, all research proposals must address the following questions:
- What do you plan to accomplish? Be clear and succinct in defining the research problem and what it is you are proposing to investigate.
- Why do you want to do the research? In addition to detailing your research design, you also must conduct a thorough review of the literature and provide convincing evidence that it is a topic worthy of in-depth study. A successful research proposal must answer the "So What?" question.
- How are you going to conduct the research? Be sure that what you propose is doable. If you're having difficulty formulating a research problem to propose investigating, go here for strategies in developing a problem to study.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failure to be concise . A research proposal must be focused and not be "all over the map" or diverge into unrelated tangents without a clear sense of purpose.
- Failure to cite landmark works in your literature review . Proposals should be grounded in foundational research that lays a foundation for understanding the development and scope of the the topic and its relevance.
- Failure to delimit the contextual scope of your research [e.g., time, place, people, etc.]. As with any research paper, your proposed study must inform the reader how and in what ways the study will frame the problem.
- Failure to develop a coherent and persuasive argument for the proposed research . This is critical. In many workplace settings, the research proposal is a formal document intended to argue for why a study should be funded.
- Sloppy or imprecise writing, or poor grammar . Although a research proposal does not represent a completed research study, there is still an expectation that it is well-written and follows the style and rules of good academic writing.
- Too much detail on minor issues, but not enough detail on major issues . Your proposal should focus on only a few key research questions in order to support the argument that the research needs to be conducted. Minor issues, even if valid, can be mentioned but they should not dominate the overall narrative.
Procter, Margaret. The Academic Proposal. The Lab Report. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Sanford, Keith. Information for Students: Writing a Research Proposal. Baylor University; Wong, Paul T. P. How to Write a Research Proposal. International Network on Personal Meaning. Trinity Western University; Writing Academic Proposals: Conferences, Articles, and Books. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Writing a Research Proposal. University Library. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Structure and Writing Style
Beginning the Proposal Process
As with writing most college-level academic papers, research proposals are generally organized the same way throughout most social science disciplines. The text of proposals generally vary in length between ten and thirty-five pages, followed by the list of references. However, before you begin, read the assignment carefully and, if anything seems unclear, ask your professor whether there are any specific requirements for organizing and writing the proposal.
A good place to begin is to ask yourself a series of questions:
- What do I want to study?
- Why is the topic important?
- How is it significant within the subject areas covered in my class?
- What problems will it help solve?
- How does it build upon [and hopefully go beyond] research already conducted on the topic?
- What exactly should I plan to do, and can I get it done in the time available?
In general, a compelling research proposal should document your knowledge of the topic and demonstrate your enthusiasm for conducting the study. Approach it with the intention of leaving your readers feeling like, "Wow, that's an exciting idea and I can’t wait to see how it turns out!"
Most proposals should include the following sections:
I. Introduction
In the real world of higher education, a research proposal is most often written by scholars seeking grant funding for a research project or it's the first step in getting approval to write a doctoral dissertation. Even if this is just a course assignment, treat your introduction as the initial pitch of an idea based on a thorough examination of the significance of a research problem. After reading the introduction, your readers should not only have an understanding of what you want to do, but they should also be able to gain a sense of your passion for the topic and to be excited about the study's possible outcomes. Note that most proposals do not include an abstract [summary] before the introduction.
Think about your introduction as a narrative written in two to four paragraphs that succinctly answers the following four questions :
- What is the central research problem?
- What is the topic of study related to that research problem?
- What methods should be used to analyze the research problem?
- Answer the "So What?" question by explaining why this is important research, what is its significance, and why should someone reading the proposal care about the outcomes of the proposed study?
II. Background and Significance
This is where you explain the scope and context of your proposal and describe in detail why it's important. It can be melded into your introduction or you can create a separate section to help with the organization and narrative flow of your proposal. Approach writing this section with the thought that you can’t assume your readers will know as much about the research problem as you do. Note that this section is not an essay going over everything you have learned about the topic; instead, you must choose what is most relevant in explaining the aims of your research.
To that end, while there are no prescribed rules for establishing the significance of your proposed study, you should attempt to address some or all of the following:
- State the research problem and give a more detailed explanation about the purpose of the study than what you stated in the introduction. This is particularly important if the problem is complex or multifaceted .
- Present the rationale of your proposed study and clearly indicate why it is worth doing; be sure to answer the "So What? question [i.e., why should anyone care?].
- Describe the major issues or problems examined by your research. This can be in the form of questions to be addressed. Be sure to note how your proposed study builds on previous assumptions about the research problem.
- Explain the methods you plan to use for conducting your research. Clearly identify the key sources you intend to use and explain how they will contribute to your analysis of the topic.
- Describe the boundaries of your proposed research in order to provide a clear focus. Where appropriate, state not only what you plan to study, but what aspects of the research problem will be excluded from the study.
- If necessary, provide definitions of key concepts, theories, or terms.
III. Literature Review
Connected to the background and significance of your study is a section of your proposal devoted to a more deliberate review and synthesis of prior studies related to the research problem under investigation . The purpose here is to place your project within the larger whole of what is currently being explored, while at the same time, demonstrating to your readers that your work is original and innovative. Think about what questions other researchers have asked, what methodological approaches they have used, and what is your understanding of their findings and, when stated, their recommendations. Also pay attention to any suggestions for further research.
Since a literature review is information dense, it is crucial that this section is intelligently structured to enable a reader to grasp the key arguments underpinning your proposed study in relation to the arguments put forth by other researchers. A good strategy is to break the literature into "conceptual categories" [themes] rather than systematically or chronologically describing groups of materials one at a time. Note that conceptual categories generally reveal themselves after you have read most of the pertinent literature on your topic so adding new categories is an on-going process of discovery as you review more studies. How do you know you've covered the key conceptual categories underlying the research literature? Generally, you can have confidence that all of the significant conceptual categories have been identified if you start to see repetition in the conclusions or recommendations that are being made.
NOTE: Do not shy away from challenging the conclusions made in prior research as a basis for supporting the need for your proposal. Assess what you believe is missing and state how previous research has failed to adequately examine the issue that your study addresses. Highlighting the problematic conclusions strengthens your proposal. For more information on writing literature reviews, GO HERE .
To help frame your proposal's review of prior research, consider the "five C’s" of writing a literature review:
- Cite , so as to keep the primary focus on the literature pertinent to your research problem.
- Compare the various arguments, theories, methodologies, and findings expressed in the literature: what do the authors agree on? Who applies similar approaches to analyzing the research problem?
- Contrast the various arguments, themes, methodologies, approaches, and controversies expressed in the literature: describe what are the major areas of disagreement, controversy, or debate among scholars?
- Critique the literature: Which arguments are more persuasive, and why? Which approaches, findings, and methodologies seem most reliable, valid, or appropriate, and why? Pay attention to the verbs you use to describe what an author says/does [e.g., asserts, demonstrates, argues, etc.].
- Connect the literature to your own area of research and investigation: how does your own work draw upon, depart from, synthesize, or add a new perspective to what has been said in the literature?
IV. Research Design and Methods
This section must be well-written and logically organized because you are not actually doing the research, yet, your reader must have confidence that you have a plan worth pursuing . The reader will never have a study outcome from which to evaluate whether your methodological choices were the correct ones. Thus, the objective here is to convince the reader that your overall research design and proposed methods of analysis will correctly address the problem and that the methods will provide the means to effectively interpret the potential results. Your design and methods should be unmistakably tied to the specific aims of your study.
Describe the overall research design by building upon and drawing examples from your review of the literature. Consider not only methods that other researchers have used, but methods of data gathering that have not been used but perhaps could be. Be specific about the methodological approaches you plan to undertake to obtain information, the techniques you would use to analyze the data, and the tests of external validity to which you commit yourself [i.e., the trustworthiness by which you can generalize from your study to other people, places, events, and/or periods of time].
When describing the methods you will use, be sure to cover the following:
- Specify the research process you will undertake and the way you will interpret the results obtained in relation to the research problem. Don't just describe what you intend to achieve from applying the methods you choose, but state how you will spend your time while applying these methods [e.g., coding text from interviews to find statements about the need to change school curriculum; running a regression to determine if there is a relationship between campaign advertising on social media sites and election outcomes in Europe ].
- Keep in mind that the methodology is not just a list of tasks; it is a deliberate argument as to why techniques for gathering information add up to the best way to investigate the research problem. This is an important point because the mere listing of tasks to be performed does not demonstrate that, collectively, they effectively address the research problem. Be sure you clearly explain this.
- Anticipate and acknowledge any potential barriers and pitfalls in carrying out your research design and explain how you plan to address them. No method applied to research in the social and behavioral sciences is perfect, so you need to describe where you believe challenges may exist in obtaining data or accessing information. It's always better to acknowledge this than to have it brought up by your professor!
V. Preliminary Suppositions and Implications
Just because you don't have to actually conduct the study and analyze the results, doesn't mean you can skip talking about the analytical process and potential implications . The purpose of this section is to argue how and in what ways you believe your research will refine, revise, or extend existing knowledge in the subject area under investigation. Depending on the aims and objectives of your study, describe how the anticipated results will impact future scholarly research, theory, practice, forms of interventions, or policy making. Note that such discussions may have either substantive [a potential new policy], theoretical [a potential new understanding], or methodological [a potential new way of analyzing] significance. When thinking about the potential implications of your study, ask the following questions:
- What might the results mean in regards to challenging the theoretical framework and underlying assumptions that support the study?
- What suggestions for subsequent research could arise from the potential outcomes of the study?
- What will the results mean to practitioners in the natural settings of their workplace, organization, or community?
- Will the results influence programs, methods, and/or forms of intervention?
- How might the results contribute to the solution of social, economic, or other types of problems?
- Will the results influence policy decisions?
- In what way do individuals or groups benefit should your study be pursued?
- What will be improved or changed as a result of the proposed research?
- How will the results of the study be implemented and what innovations or transformative insights could emerge from the process of implementation?
NOTE: This section should not delve into idle speculation, opinion, or be formulated on the basis of unclear evidence . The purpose is to reflect upon gaps or understudied areas of the current literature and describe how your proposed research contributes to a new understanding of the research problem should the study be implemented as designed.
ANOTHER NOTE : This section is also where you describe any potential limitations to your proposed study. While it is impossible to highlight all potential limitations because the study has yet to be conducted, you still must tell the reader where and in what form impediments may arise and how you plan to address them.
VI. Conclusion
The conclusion reiterates the importance or significance of your proposal and provides a brief summary of the entire study . This section should be only one or two paragraphs long, emphasizing why the research problem is worth investigating, why your research study is unique, and how it should advance existing knowledge.
Someone reading this section should come away with an understanding of:
- Why the study should be done;
- The specific purpose of the study and the research questions it attempts to answer;
- The decision for why the research design and methods used where chosen over other options;
- The potential implications emerging from your proposed study of the research problem; and
- A sense of how your study fits within the broader scholarship about the research problem.
VII. Citations
As with any scholarly research paper, you must cite the sources you used . In a standard research proposal, this section can take two forms, so consult with your professor about which one is preferred.
- References -- a list of only the sources you actually used in creating your proposal.
- Bibliography -- a list of everything you used in creating your proposal, along with additional citations to any key sources relevant to understanding the research problem.
In either case, this section should testify to the fact that you did enough preparatory work to ensure the project will complement and not just duplicate the efforts of other researchers. It demonstrates to the reader that you have a thorough understanding of prior research on the topic.
Most proposal formats have you start a new page and use the heading "References" or "Bibliography" centered at the top of the page. Cited works should always use a standard format that follows the writing style advised by the discipline of your course [e.g., education=APA; history=Chicago] or that is preferred by your professor. This section normally does not count towards the total page length of your research proposal.
Develop a Research Proposal: Writing the Proposal. Office of Library Information Services. Baltimore County Public Schools; Heath, M. Teresa Pereira and Caroline Tynan. “Crafting a Research Proposal.” The Marketing Review 10 (Summer 2010): 147-168; Jones, Mark. “Writing a Research Proposal.” In MasterClass in Geography Education: Transforming Teaching and Learning . Graham Butt, editor. (New York: Bloomsbury Academic, 2015), pp. 113-127; Juni, Muhamad Hanafiah. “Writing a Research Proposal.” International Journal of Public Health and Clinical Sciences 1 (September/October 2014): 229-240; Krathwohl, David R. How to Prepare a Dissertation Proposal: Suggestions for Students in Education and the Social and Behavioral Sciences . Syracuse, NY: Syracuse University Press, 2005; Procter, Margaret. The Academic Proposal. The Lab Report. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Punch, Keith and Wayne McGowan. "Developing and Writing a Research Proposal." In From Postgraduate to Social Scientist: A Guide to Key Skills . Nigel Gilbert, ed. (Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 2006), 59-81; Wong, Paul T. P. How to Write a Research Proposal. International Network on Personal Meaning. Trinity Western University; Writing Academic Proposals: Conferences , Articles, and Books. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Writing a Research Proposal. University Library. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
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What is a research proposal?
A research proposal is a type of text which maps out a proposed central research problem or question and a suggestedâŻapproach to its investigation.
In many universities, including RMIT, the research proposal is a formal requirement. It is central to achieving your first milestone: your Confirmation of Candidature. The research proposal is useful for both you and the University: it gives you the opportunity to get valuable feedback about your intended research aims, objectives and design. It also confirms that your proposed research is worth doing, which puts you on track for a successful candidature supported by your School and the University.
Although there may be specific School or disciplinary requirements that you need to be aware of, all research proposals address the following central themes:
- what ⯠you propose to research
- why ⯠the topic needs to be researched
- how⯠you plan to research it.
Purpose and audience
Before venturing into writing a research purposal, it is important to think about the purpose and audience of this type of text. Spend a moment or two to reflect on what these might be.
What do you think is the purpose of your research proposal and who is your audience?
TheâŻpurposeâŻof your research proposal is:
1. To allow experienced researchers (your supervisors and their peers) to assess whether
- the researchâŻquestion or problemâŻis viable (that is, answers or solutions are possible)
- the research isâŻworth doingâŻin terms of itsâŻcontribution to the field of study and benefits to stakeholders
- theâŻscopeâŻis appropriate to the degree (Masters or PhD)
- youâve understood theâŻrelevant keyâŻliteratureâŻand identified theâŻgap for your research
- youâve chosen an appropriateâŻmethodological approach.
2. To helpâŻyouâŻclarify and focus on what you want to do, why you want to do it, and how youâll do it. The research proposal helps you position yourself as a researcher in your field. It will also allow you to:
- systematically think through your proposed research, argue for its significance and identify the scope
- show a critical understanding of the scholarly field around your proposed research
- show the gap in the literature that your research will address
- justify your proposed research design
- identify all tasks that need to be done through a realistic timetable
- anticipate potential problems
- hone organisational skills that you will need for your research
- become familiar with relevant search engines and databases
- develop skills in research writing.
The mainâŻaudienceâŻfor your research proposal is your reviewers. Universities usually assign a panel of reviewers to which you need to submit your research proposal. Often this is within the first year ofâŻstudy for PhD candidates, and within the first six months for Masters by Research candidates.
Your reviewers may have a strong disciplinary understanding of the area of your proposed research, but depending on your specialisation, they may not. It is therefore important to create a clear context, rationale and framework for your proposed research.âŻLimit jargon and specialist terminology so that non-specialists can comprehend it. You need to convinceâŻthe reviewers that your proposed research is worth doing and that you will be able toâŻeffectively âinterrogateââŻyour research questions orâŻaddress theâŻresearch problems through your chosen research design.
Your review panel will expect you to demonstrate:
- a clearly defined and feasible research project
- a clearly explained rationale for your research
- evidence that your research will make an original contribution through a critical review of the literature
- written skills appropriate to graduate research study.
Research and Writing Skills for Academic and Graduate Researchers Copyright © 2022 by RMIT University is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.
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Home » Proposal – Types, Examples, and Writing Guide
Proposal – Types, Examples, and Writing Guide
Table of Contents
A proposal is a formal document that outlines a plan or suggestion for a specific project, research, or business endeavor. It is designed to persuade the intended audienceâsuch as stakeholders, clients, or academic committeesâto approve the proposed plan. Proposals are essential across various fields, including research, business, education, and government, and must be clear, concise, and well-structured to achieve their purpose.
This article explores the types of proposals, provides examples, and offers a detailed writing guide.
A proposal is a structured document aimed at convincing the reader to accept or support a particular plan. It includes a description of the problem, objectives, methods, and expected outcomes or benefits of the proposal.
For example, a research proposal may outline a studyâs objectives and methods, while a business proposal could describe a strategy to improve a company’s market reach.
Types of Proposals
1. research proposal.
- Purpose: Used in academic or scientific contexts to propose a study.
- Key Components: Research question, literature review, methodology, timeline, and significance.
- Example: A proposal to investigate the impact of social media on teenage mental health.
2. Business Proposal
- Purpose: Aimed at proposing products, services, or solutions to potential clients or investors.
- Key Components: Executive summary, objectives, financial projections, and benefits.
- Example: A proposal for implementing a digital marketing campaign to increase brand awareness.
3. Grant Proposal
- Purpose: Used to secure funding for projects, research, or community initiatives.
- Key Components: Project description, budget, goals, and impact assessment.
- Example: A grant proposal for funding a community-based recycling program.
4. Project Proposal
- Purpose: Details the objectives, methods, and resources required for completing a specific project.
- Key Components: Goals, scope, resources, timeline, and deliverables.
- Example: A proposal for launching a new software development project.
5. Event Proposal
- Purpose: Outlines plans for organizing events, such as conferences, fundraisers, or weddings.
- Key Components: Event details, budget, target audience, and logistics.
- Example: A proposal for hosting a charity gala to support local schools.
6. Internal Proposal
- Purpose: Submitted within an organization to suggest changes or improvements.
- Key Components: Problem statement, proposed solution, cost analysis, and benefits.
- Example: A proposal to upgrade the companyâs IT infrastructure to improve efficiency.
7. Sales Proposal
- Purpose: Aims to sell a product or service to a potential client.
- Key Components: Product details, pricing, benefits, and a call to action.
- Example: A proposal to provide cloud-based solutions to small businesses.
8. Academic Proposal
- Purpose: Used for academic purposes, such as conference papers, theses, or dissertations.
- Key Components: Title, research objectives, literature review, and methodology.
- Example: A thesis proposal to study the effects of climate change on agriculture.
Examples of Proposals
Example 1: research proposal.
Title: The Effects of Remote Learning on Student Engagement
- Problem Statement: The pandemic has shifted education online, impacting student engagement.
- Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of remote learning and identify strategies for improvement.
- Methodology: Surveys and interviews with students and teachers.
Example 2: Business Proposal
Title: Digital Marketing Solutions for Small Businesses
- Introduction: Many small businesses struggle to adapt to digital trends.
- Proposed Solution: A comprehensive digital marketing strategy, including SEO and social media campaigns.
- Benefits: Increased online visibility, customer engagement, and revenue.
Example 3: Grant Proposal
Title: Community Recycling Initiative
- Objective: To establish a recycling program in underserved neighborhoods.
- Budget: $50,000 for equipment, staff, and outreach programs.
- Expected Impact: Reduction in landfill waste and increased community awareness.
Writing Guide for a Proposal
1. title page.
Include the title of the proposal, your name or organization, the recipientâs name, and the date.
2. Executive Summary (Optional)
Provide a brief overview of the proposal, highlighting key points such as the purpose, objectives, and expected outcomes.
3. Introduction
- Introduce the problem or opportunity that your proposal addresses.
- Explain why this issue is important and relevant to the audience.
4. Objectives
- Clearly state what you aim to achieve with your proposal.
- Use specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives.
5. Proposed Plan or Methodology
- Describe the steps you will take to achieve the objectives.
- Include details on the approach, tools, and techniques you will use.
- Explain how the proposed solution is practical and feasible.
6. Budget (if applicable)
- Provide a detailed breakdown of the costs involved.
- Justify each expense and explain how the budget aligns with the proposalâs goals.
7. Timeline
- Include a timeline or Gantt chart outlining major milestones and deadlines.
- Specify how long each phase of the project will take.
8. Benefits and Impact
- Highlight the value or positive outcomes of your proposal.
- Address how it will benefit the target audience, organization, or community.
9. Conclusion
- Summarize the proposal and reinforce why it should be approved.
- Include a call to action, encouraging the recipient to move forward.
10. Appendices (Optional)
Attach supplementary materials such as graphs, charts, resumes, or supporting documents.
Tips for Writing a Successful Proposal
- Understand Your Audience: Tailor the tone, content, and structure to suit the recipient’s expectations.
- Be Clear and Concise: Use straightforward language and avoid unnecessary jargon.
- Focus on Benefits: Highlight how the proposal addresses the recipient’s needs or solves their problems.
- Provide Evidence: Back up your claims with data, research, or case studies.
- Proofread: Ensure your proposal is free of grammatical errors and typos.
- Use Visuals: Incorporate graphs, charts, or diagrams to enhance understanding and engagement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Lack of Specificity: Vague objectives or plans weaken the proposalâs credibility.
- Ignoring the Audience: Failing to address the recipient’s needs or concerns.
- Overloading with Information: Including irrelevant details can confuse or distract readers.
- Unrealistic Budgets or Timelines: Proposals must be feasible to gain approval.
- Weak Conclusion: Not reinforcing the importance of your proposal or including a clear call to action.
A well-crafted proposal is a powerful tool for communicating ideas, securing support, and driving action. Whether you’re drafting a research proposal for academic purposes, a business proposal to secure a client, or a grant proposal to obtain funding, following a clear structure and focusing on the recipientâs needs will greatly increase your chances of success. By applying the writing guide and learning from examples, you can create proposals that stand out and deliver results.
- Locke, L. F., Spirduso, W. W., & Silverman, S. J. (2013). Proposals That Work: A Guide for Planning Dissertations and Grant Proposals . Sage Publications.
- Gerson, S. J., & Gerson, S. M. (2020). Technical Writing: Process and Product . Pearson.
- Coughlan, M., Cronin, P., & Ryan, F. (2007). Step-by-step guide to critiquing research. Part 1: Quantitative research. British Journal of Nursing , 16(11), 658-663.
- Purdue OWL. (2023). Writing Proposals . Retrieved from https://owl.purdue.edu.
- Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches . Sage Publications.
About the author
Muhammad Hassan
Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer
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- StudySkills@Sheffield
- Research skills
- Research methods
How to write a research proposal
Advice and guidance on writing a proposal for a student research project.
Purpose of a research proposal
A research proposal is your plan for the research you intend to conduct. It should describe:
- what you will investigate,
- why it is important to the discipline and
- how you will conduct your research.
Your research proposal also needs to persuade someone about how and why your intended project is worthwhile.
In your proposal you will need to explain and defend your choices. Always think about the exact reasons why you are making specific choices and why they are the best options available to you and your project.
Your research proposal should focus on:
- Relevance - You want to convince the reader how and why your research is relevant and significant to your field and how it is original. This is typically done in parts of the introduction and the literature review.
- Context - You should demonstrate that you are familiar with the field, you understand the current state of research on the topic and your ideas have a strong academic basis (i.e., not simply based on your instincts or personal views). This will be the focus of your introduction and literature review.
- Approach - You need to make a case for your methodology, showing that you have carefully thought about the data, tools and procedures you will need to conduct the research. You need to explicitly defend all of your choices. This will be presented in the research design section.
Feasibility - You need to show that your project is both reasonable and feasible within the practical constraints of the course, timescales, institution or funding. You need to make sure you have the time and access to resources to complete the project in a reasonable period.
Writing a Research Proposal workshop: book here
Proposal format
The format of a research proposal varies between fields and levels of study but most proposals should contain at least these elements:
- introduction,
- literature review,
- research design and
- reference list.
Research proposals usually range from 500-1500 words. However, proposals for larger projects, such as a PhD dissertation or funding request, may be longer and more detailed.
Check the required format for your discipline and context.
Introduction
The introduction to your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why. In other words, this is where you answer the readerâs âso what?â
It should typically include:
- introducing the topic,
- outlining your research question(s) and
- giving background and context.
Some important questions to shape your introduction include:
- Who has an interest in the topic (e.g. scientists, practitioners, policymakers, particular members of society)?
- How much is already known about the problem and why is it important?
- What is missing from current knowledge and why?
- What new insights will your research contribute?
- Why is this research worth doing?
If your proposal is very long, you might include separate sections with more detailed information on the background and context, aims and objectives, and importance of the research.
To get you started, try describing your proposed research project to a friend or family member, or imagine how you would describe it to them. What background information would you need to provide? What would the impact of the research be for the general public?
Literature review
Itâs important to show that youâre familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review convinces the reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory (i.e. how it relates to established research in the field).
Your literature review will also show that youâre not simply repeating what other people have already done or said. This is also where you explain why your research is necessary.
You do not need to conduct a full literature review, as you will do that later during the research project, but you do need to provide an overview of the key research and ideas relating to your topic.
You might want to consider some of the following prompts:
- Comparing and contrasting: what are the main theories, methods, debates and controversies?
- Being critical: what are the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches?
- Showing how your research fits in: how will you build on, challenge or synthesise the work of others?
- Filling a gap in the existing body of research: why is your idea innovative?
Visit How to write a literature review for detailed information.
Research design and methods
Following the literature review, you can restate your main objectives to bring the focus back to your own project.
The research design/ methodology section should describe the overall approach and practical steps you will take to answer your research questions. You also need to demonstrate the feasibility of the project, keeping in mind time and other constraints.
You should include:
- Qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods research?
- Will you collect original data or work with primary/secondary sources?
- Is your research design descriptive, correlational or experimental? Something completely different?
- If you are undertaking your own study, when and where will you collect the data? How will you select subjects or sources? Exactly what or who will you study?
- What tools and procedures will you use (e.g. systematic reviews, surveys, interviews, observation, experiments, bibliographic data) to collect your data?
- What tools/methods will you use to analyse your data?
- Why are these the best methods to answer your research question(s)? This is where you should justify your choices.
- How much time will you need to collect and analyse the data?
- How will you gain access to participants and sources?
- How will you address any ethical issues?
- What problems might you encounter? How will you address them?
Do not simply compile a list of methods. Explain why this is the most appropriate, valid and reliable way to approach answering your question. Remember you should always be defending your choices!
You might also need to include a schedule or a budget - check what is required for your proposal.
Implications and contributions to knowledge
To finish your proposal on a strong note, emphasise the potential implications of the research. This means: what do you intend to contribute to existing knowledge on the topic?
Although you cannot know the results of your research until you have actually done the work, you should have a clear idea of how your work will contribute to your field.
This section is very important because it expresses exactly why your research is necessary.
Try to cover at least some of the following topics:
- Ways in which your work can challenge existing theories and assumptions in your field.
- How your work will create the foundation for future research and theory.
- The practical value of your findings for practitioners, educators or other academics in your field.
- The problems or issues your work can potentially help to resolve.
- Policies that could be impacted by your findings.
- How your findings can be implemented in academia or other settings and what difference this will make.
This part is not about stating the specific results that you expect to obtain but rather, this is the section where you explicitly state how your findings will be valuable.
This section should tie your whole proposal together. It is just like the concluding paragraph that you would structure and craft for a typical essay. You should briefly summarise your research proposal and reinforce why your research is important.
Reference list
Your research proposal must include proper citations and full references for every source you have included. Follow your departmentâs referencing style .
Writing style
You should write in an academic style.
Your proposal is a piece of persuasive and critical writing. Although you are presenting your proposal in an academic and objective manner, the goal is to get the reader to say âyesâ to your work. Make sure you emphasise the strengths of your proposal and why your research is important.
Resources on how to write critically:
- How to write critically
- The Manchester academic phrasebank includes some examples of phrases you can use when being critical .
Academic writing does not need to be flowery or pretentious. Aim to write in a concise and accessible style.
Book a writing advisory service appointment for advice and feedback on your style and other aspects of your proposal.
Make an appointment
Checklist for a strong proposal
Once you have written your proposal, read back through it with the following questions in mind.
- Have you made a strong and persuasive argument for the value of your research?
- Have you focused on key information? Avoid unnecessary details.
- Is your proposal easy to understand? Have you expressed your ideas clearly?
- Have you included references for all the sources you cite?
- Is your reference list formatted correctly?
Check for spelling, grammatical or stylistic errors. Visit How to proofread your work for more information.
After submitting your proposal
Once you get to the stage of carrying out your research project, you may find our
Research Writing workshop useful. This workshop will look at some of the main writing challenges associated with writing a large-scale research project and look at strategies to manage your writing on a day-to-day basis. It will identify ways to plan, organise and map out the structure of your writing to allow you to develop an effective writing schedule and make continuous progress on your dissertation project.
- How to plan a dissertation or final year project
- How to write a literature review
- How to identify your research methods
Further Resources
- Applying essentials â PhD study
Use your mySkills portfolio to discover your skillset, reflect on your development, and record your progress.
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As you write up your research proposal, remember the all-important core purpose: to convince. Your research proposal needs to sell your study in terms of suitability and viability. So, focus on crafting a convincing narrative to ensure a strong proposal. At the same time, pay close attention to your university's requirements.
Research proposals are usually required when one plans to write a thesis, dissertation, or research paper. The format is similar to that of a research paper, with an introduction, a literature review, a methods section, and a conclusion. đŻ Purpose of Research Proposal
To achieve this, the report should be well structured with the objectives written in clear, understandable language devoid of jargon. A well-organized research proposal conveys to the readers or evaluators that the writer has thought out the research plan meticulously and has the resources to ensure timely completion. Purpose of Research Proposals
The research proposal is the document that finally establishes that there is a niche for your chosen area of study and that the research design is feasible. What should the proposal include? 1. An outline of the research objectives/hypotheses 2. A brief account of prior research in the topic area 3. Some detail of the proposed research design ...
Research proposals often include a title page, an abstract, an introduction, background information, research questions, a literature review and a bibliography. The document's purpose includes describing the importance of research in a specific area, addressing any challenges you may encounter, showcasing your knowledge in your field and ...
A research proposal must be focused and not be "all over the map" or diverge into unrelated tangents without a clear sense of purpose. Failure to cite landmark works in your literature review . Proposals should be grounded in foundational research that lays a foundation for understanding the development and scope of the the topic and its relevance.
A research proposal is a type of text which maps out a proposed central research problem or question and a suggested approach to its investigation. In many universities, including RMIT, the research proposal is a formal requirement. It is central to achieving your first milestone: your Confirmation of Candidature.
Purpose of a Research Proposal. A research proposal has multiple purposes depending on its context: 1. Securing Funding. Research proposals are often required to obtain grants or funding from organizations, institutions, or government bodies. They demonstrate how the research aligns with the funder's objectives and justifies the resources needed.
Types of Proposals 1. Research Proposal. Purpose: Used in academic or scientific contexts to propose a study. Key Components: Research question, literature review, methodology, timeline, and significance. Example: A proposal to investigate the impact of social media on teenage mental health. 2. Business Proposal. Purpose: Aimed at proposing products, services, or solutions to potential clients ...
Purpose of a research proposal. A research proposal is your plan for the research you intend to conduct. It should describe: what you will investigate, ; why it is important to the discipline and ; how you will conduct your research.; Your research proposal also needs to persuade someone about how and why your intended project is worthwhile.. In your proposal you will need to explain and ...