process of a good research proposal

How to Write a Research Proposal: (with Examples & Templates)

Table of Contents

Before conducting a study, a research proposal should be created that outlines researchers’ 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.  

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.  

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.  

What is a Research Proposal ?  

A research proposal¹ ,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 study’s credibility, accuracy, achievability, practicality, and reproducibility.   

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.  

Purpose of Research Proposals  

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 you’re 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.  

Research proposals can be written for several reasons:³  

• To describe the importance of research in the specific topic  
• Address any potential challenges you may encounter  
• Showcase knowledge in the field and your ability to conduct a study  
• Apply for a role at a research institute  
• Convince a research supervisor or university that your research can satisfy the requirements of a degree program  
• Highlight the importance of your research to organizations that may sponsor your project  
• Identify implications of your project and how it can benefit the audience  

What Goes in a Research Proposal?    

Research proposals should aim to answer the three basic questions—what, why, and how.  

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.  

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.  

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.   

Research Proposal Example  

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.  

Structure of a Research Proposal  

If you want to know how to make a research proposal impactful, include the following components:¹  

1. Introduction  

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.  

2. Literature review  

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.  

3. Objectives  

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 study’s specific goals are.  

4. Research design and methodology  

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.  

5. Ethical considerations  

This refers to the protection of participants’ 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.  

6. Budget/funding  

Researchers should prepare their budget and include all expected expenditures. An additional allowance for contingencies such as delays should also be factored in.  

7. Appendices  

This section typically includes information that supports the research proposal and may include informed consent forms, questionnaires, participant information, measurement tools, etc.  

8. Citations  

Important Tips for Writing a Research Proposal  

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  

The Planning Stage  

• 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?  
• Will your research address any existing gap?  
• What is the impact of your proposed research?  
• Do people outside your field find your research applicable in other areas?  
• If your research is unsuccessful, would there still be other useful research outcomes?  

  The Writing Stage  

• Create an outline with main section headings that are typically used.  
• 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.   
• 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.  
• Don’t use too many technical terms and abbreviations assuming that the readers would know them. Define the abbreviations and technical terms.  
• 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.  
• Focus on only the major research issues and cite sources accordingly. Don’t include generic information or their sources in the literature review.  
• Proofread your final document to ensure there are no grammatical errors so readers can enjoy a seamless, uninterrupted read.  
• Use academic, scholarly language because it brings formality into a document.  
• Ensure that your title is created using the keywords in the document and is neither too long and specific nor too short and general.  
• Cite all sources appropriately to avoid plagiarism.  
• 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.  
• Ensure that you’ve answered all questions requested by the evaluating authority.  

Key Takeaways   

Here’s a summary of the main points about research proposals discussed in the previous sections:  

• 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.  
• Research proposals are usually about 2,000-4,000 words long, but this depends on the evaluating authority’s guidelines.  
• A good research proposal ensures that you’ve done your background research and assessed the feasibility of the research.  
• Research proposals have the following main sections—introduction, literature review, objectives, methodology, ethical considerations, and budget.  

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q1. How is a research proposal evaluated?  

A1. In general, most evaluators, including universities, broadly use the following criteria to evaluate research proposals . 6  

• Significance —Does the research address any important subject or issue, which may or may not be specific to the evaluator or university?  
• Content and design —Is the proposed methodology appropriate to answer the research question? Are the objectives clear and well aligned with the proposed methodology?  
• Sample size and selection —Is the target population or cohort size clearly mentioned? Is the sampling process used to select participants randomized, appropriate, and free of bias?  
• Timing —Are the proposed data collection dates mentioned clearly? Is the project feasible given the specified resources and timeline?  
• Data management and dissemination —Who will have access to the data? What is the plan for data analysis?  

Q2. What is the difference between the Introduction and Literature Review sections in a research proposal ?  

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.  

Q3. How long should a research proposal be?  

A3. Research proposal lengths vary with the evaluating authority like universities or committees and also the subject. Here’s a table that lists the typical research proposal lengths for a few universities.  

Q4. What are the common mistakes to avoid in a research proposal ?  

A4. Here are a few common mistakes that you must avoid while writing a research proposal . 7  

• No clear objectives: Objectives should be clear, specific, and measurable for the easy understanding among readers.  
• 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.  
• Overlooking project feasibility: The project scope and estimates should be realistic considering the resources and time available.   
• 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.  
• 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.  
• 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.  

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.  

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.  

References  

• 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/  
• 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  
• 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  
• 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  
• 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  
• Formal review of research proposals. Cornell University. Accessed July 18, 2024. https://irp.dpb.cornell.edu/surveys/survey-assessment-review-group/research-proposals  
• 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/  

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How to write a research proposal?

Devika rani duggappa.

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Address for correspondence: Dr. Devika Rani Duggappa, 314/2/5, Durganjali Nilaya, 1 st H Cross, 7 th Main, Subbanna Garden, Vijayanagar, Bengaluru - 560 040, Karnataka, India. E-mail: [email protected]

This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 License, which allows others to remix, tweak, and build upon the work non-commercially, as long as the author is credited and the new creations are licensed under the identical terms.

Writing the proposal of a research work in the present era is a challenging task due to the constantly evolving trends in the qualitative research design and the need to incorporate medical advances into the methodology. The proposal is a detailed plan or ‘blueprint’ for the intended study, and once it is completed, the research project should flow smoothly. Even today, many of the proposals at post-graduate evaluation committees and application proposals for funding are substandard. A search was conducted with keywords such as research proposal, writing proposal and qualitative using search engines, namely, PubMed and Google Scholar, and an attempt has been made to provide broad guidelines for writing a scientifically appropriate research proposal.

Key words: Guidelines, proposal, qualitative, research

INTRODUCTION

A clean, well-thought-out proposal forms the backbone for the research itself and hence becomes the most important step in the process of conduct of research.[ 1 ] The objective of preparing a research proposal would be to obtain approvals from various committees including ethics committee [details under ‘Research methodology II’ section [ Table 1 ] in this issue of IJA) and to request for grants. However, there are very few universally accepted guidelines for preparation of a good quality research proposal. A search was performed with keywords such as research proposal, funding, qualitative and writing proposals using search engines, namely, PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus.

Five ‘C’s while writing a literature review

BASIC REQUIREMENTS OF A RESEARCH PROPOSAL

A proposal needs to show how your work fits into what is already known about the topic and what new paradigm will it add to the literature, while specifying the question that the research will answer, establishing its significance, and the implications of the answer.[ 2 ] The proposal must be capable of convincing the evaluation committee about the credibility, achievability, practicality and reproducibility (repeatability) of the research design.[ 3 ] Four categories of audience with different expectations may be present in the evaluation committees, namely academic colleagues, policy-makers, practitioners and lay audiences who evaluate the research proposal. Tips for preparation of a good research proposal include; ‘be practical, be persuasive, make broader links, aim for crystal clarity and plan before you write’. A researcher must be balanced, with a realistic understanding of what can be achieved. Being persuasive implies that researcher must be able to convince other researchers, research funding agencies, educational institutions and supervisors that the research is worth getting approval. The aim of the researcher should be clearly stated in simple language that describes the research in a way that non-specialists can comprehend, without use of jargons. The proposal must not only demonstrate that it is based on an intelligent understanding of the existing literature but also show that the writer has thought about the time needed to conduct each stage of the research.[ 4 , 5 ]

CONTENTS OF A RESEARCH PROPOSAL

The contents or formats of a research proposal vary depending on the requirements of evaluation committee and are generally provided by the evaluation committee or the institution.

In general, a cover page should contain the (i) title of the proposal, (ii) name and affiliation of the researcher (principal investigator) and co-investigators, (iii) institutional affiliation (degree of the investigator and the name of institution where the study will be performed), details of contact such as phone numbers, E-mail id's and lines for signatures of investigators.

The main contents of the proposal may be presented under the following headings: (i) introduction, (ii) review of literature, (iii) aims and objectives, (iv) research design and methods, (v) ethical considerations, (vi) budget, (vii) appendices and (viii) citations.[ 4 ]

Introduction

It is also sometimes termed as ‘need for study’ or ‘abstract’. Introduction is an initial pitch of an idea; it sets the scene and puts the research in context.[ 6 ] The introduction should be designed to create interest in the reader about the topic and proposal. It should convey to the reader, what you want to do, what necessitates the study and your passion for the topic.[ 7 ] Some questions that can be used to assess the significance of the study are: (i) Who has an interest in the domain of inquiry? (ii) What do we already know about the topic? (iii) What has not been answered adequately in previous research and practice? (iv) How will this research add to knowledge, practice and policy in this area? Some of the evaluation committees, expect the last two questions, elaborated under a separate heading of ‘background and significance’.[ 8 ] Introduction should also contain the hypothesis behind the research design. If hypothesis cannot be constructed, the line of inquiry to be used in the research must be indicated.

Review of literature

It refers to all sources of scientific evidence pertaining to the topic in interest. In the present era of digitalisation and easy accessibility, there is an enormous amount of relevant data available, making it a challenge for the researcher to include all of it in his/her review.[ 9 ] It is crucial to structure this section intelligently so that the reader can grasp the argument related to your study in relation to that of other researchers, while still demonstrating to your readers that your work is original and innovative. It is preferable to summarise each article in a paragraph, highlighting the details pertinent to the topic of interest. The progression of review can move from the more general to the more focused studies, or a historical progression can be used to develop the story, without making it exhaustive.[ 1 ] Literature should include supporting data, disagreements and controversies. Five ‘C's may be kept in mind while writing a literature review[ 10 ] [ Table 1 ].

Aims and objectives

The research purpose (or goal or aim) gives a broad indication of what the researcher wishes to achieve in the research. The hypothesis to be tested can be the aim of the study. The objectives related to parameters or tools used to achieve the aim are generally categorised as primary and secondary objectives.

Research design and method

The objective here is to convince the reader that the overall research design and methods of analysis will correctly address the research problem and to impress upon the reader that the methodology/sources chosen are appropriate for the specific topic. It should be unmistakably tied to the specific aims of your study.

In this section, the methods and sources used to conduct the research must be discussed, including specific references to sites, databases, key texts or authors that will be indispensable to the project. There should be specific mention about the methodological approaches to be undertaken to gather information, about the techniques to be used to analyse it and about the tests of external validity to which researcher is committed.[ 10 , 11 ]

The components of this section include the following:[ 4 ]

Population and sample

Population refers to all the elements (individuals, objects or substances) that meet certain criteria for inclusion in a given universe,[ 12 ] and sample refers to subset of population which meets the inclusion criteria for enrolment into the study. The inclusion and exclusion criteria should be clearly defined. The details pertaining to sample size are discussed in the article “Sample size calculation: Basic priniciples” published in this issue of IJA.

Data collection

The researcher is expected to give a detailed account of the methodology adopted for collection of data, which include the time frame required for the research. The methodology should be tested for its validity and ensure that, in pursuit of achieving the results, the participant's life is not jeopardised. The author should anticipate and acknowledge any potential barrier and pitfall in carrying out the research design and explain plans to address them, thereby avoiding lacunae due to incomplete data collection. If the researcher is planning to acquire data through interviews or questionnaires, copy of the questions used for the same should be attached as an annexure with the proposal.

Rigor (soundness of the research)

This addresses the strength of the research with respect to its neutrality, consistency and applicability. Rigor must be reflected throughout the proposal.

It refers to the robustness of a research method against bias. The author should convey the measures taken to avoid bias, viz. blinding and randomisation, in an elaborate way, thus ensuring that the result obtained from the adopted method is purely as chance and not influenced by other confounding variables.

Consistency

Consistency considers whether the findings will be consistent if the inquiry was replicated with the same participants and in a similar context. This can be achieved by adopting standard and universally accepted methods and scales.

Applicability

Applicability refers to the degree to which the findings can be applied to different contexts and groups.[ 13 ]

Data analysis

This section deals with the reduction and reconstruction of data and its analysis including sample size calculation. The researcher is expected to explain the steps adopted for coding and sorting the data obtained. Various tests to be used to analyse the data for its robustness, significance should be clearly stated. Author should also mention the names of statistician and suitable software which will be used in due course of data analysis and their contribution to data analysis and sample calculation.[ 9 ]

Ethical considerations

Medical research introduces special moral and ethical problems that are not usually encountered by other researchers during data collection, and hence, the researcher should take special care in ensuring that ethical standards are met. Ethical considerations refer to the protection of the participants' rights (right to self-determination, right to privacy, right to autonomy and confidentiality, right to fair treatment and right to protection from discomfort and harm), obtaining informed consent and the institutional review process (ethical approval). The researcher needs to provide adequate information on each of these aspects.

Informed consent needs to be obtained from the participants (details discussed in further chapters), as well as the research site and the relevant authorities.

When the researcher prepares a research budget, he/she should predict and cost all aspects of the research and then add an additional allowance for unpredictable disasters, delays and rising costs. All items in the budget should be justified.

Appendices are documents that support the proposal and application. The appendices will be specific for each proposal but documents that are usually required include informed consent form, supporting documents, questionnaires, measurement tools and patient information of the study in layman's language.

As with any scholarly research paper, you must cite the sources you used in composing your proposal. Although the words ‘references and bibliography’ are different, they are used interchangeably. It refers to all references cited in the research proposal.

Successful, qualitative research proposals should communicate the researcher's knowledge of the field and method and convey the emergent nature of the qualitative design. The proposal should follow a discernible logic from the introduction to presentation of the appendices.

Financial support and sponsorship

Conflicts of interest.

There are no conflicts of interest.

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Writing a research proposal

The format of a research proposal varies depending on what or who it is required by. They can vary in length, ie. be very concise or quite long and detailed. Also the headings for the different sections can vary.  Therefore, this guide deals with the research proposal in its most generic form, which should be easily modifiable to fit the criteria for any research body.

The ultimate aim of any research proposal is to convince people that your research is important, has not been done before, is worthwhile and is feasible. Hence you have to make a strong argument for your research. The language used should be clear and easy to understand, as often non-experts will assess it.  Some funders may, and the Research Ethics Committee application form will, want a ‘lay’ summary in addition to your basic proposal document.  It is usually only in the background and methodology sections that writers tend to assume that the intended audience has a particular knowledge of their research area.

 Additionally, it is crucial that different sections of your research proposal should link or follow on from each other, eg. the research question should link with the methodology.  This may sound obvious, but revisions of one section can lead to mis-matches. Check this before submitting your proposal! 

Typical stages in a research proposal

1. The purpose of a research proposal is:

• To help to focus on a relevant and current topic.
• To identify a gap or inadequacy in the research literature.
• To make sure that these are your ideas, and to help you to focus and crystallise your ideas.
• To help you to focus on what the actual stages involved in the research process will be, eg. the exact methodology and data analysis that will be adopted.
• To justify a proposed research project to a particular audience, eg. supervisor, departmental or faculty committee, external funding body etc.

2. Some strategies before you start:

• Search through literature for topic related articles and books, ie. search through databases/catalogues/journals etc.
• Look at what is already being done in the area i.e. existing data and research.
• Read critically, ie. look for interesting and suitable gaps – areas for research.
• Talk to your employer for approval – there is no point in starting research that you will not be allowed to complete.
• Talk to your local research and development teams.  They will be able to tell you the specific criteria for any research proposal and may highlight some issues that you have overlooked.
• Talk to experts or supervisors in the field – in person, phone, letters, e-mail.
• If it is helpful, use concept maps to link ideas, and or formulate questions that the literature review should address. 

3. Identifying your research question:

Any research proposal needs to have a clear research question for it to succeed.  Without a clear question research will become confused and lack direction. Subsequent analysis will be difficult because the research question is key to forming your hypothesis or aims, and later analysis.

Do start by writing a question, not a statement.  This will help clarify exactly what the issue is that you are trying to find a solution to.  Hypotheses, aims etc can then follow from this.

Your research question should:

• Be as clear and concise as you can make it.  Don’t use multi-barrelled questions if you can avoid them.
• Be informative – state your population of interest, locality etc.
• Avoid technical jargon – this is the golden rule in most areas of research proposals.  Remember that your research question is what will capture the interest of the reader / assessor.
• Relate to the proposal title – often the research question is quoted as the title of the proposal.
• Relate to the aim of the research – again, the research question is often quoted as the research aim.

It should be obvious from your question alone what the project will aim to do, and on who.

4. Project title:

The title should be brief but informative. It is important that it is clear and easy to understand, and describes what your proposed research is.  As previously stated, this is often the research question.

5. Abstract or summary:

This is a very important section which bears a disproportionate share of responsibility for success or failure of a proposal, as it may act as the initial ‘hook’.

It needs to be written for a wider audience, so technical vocabulary has to be limited. The abstract also needs to come quickly to the proposed research. Abstracts for grant proposals usually begin with the objective or purpose of the study, move on to methodology (procedures and design), and close with a modest but precise statement of the projects’ significance.

The significance should:

• Be about one paragraph – if it needs any longer it is advisable to rethink your research or break it down into more manageable chunks.
• Explain to the reader why the study is “significant”, in the sense of advancing general knowledge.
• Explain what the benefits to the patient / health community are.
• Encourage funding.

Although you present this first in the document, write it last so that its content accurately reflects the whole proposal.

6. Introduction:

The introduction is also written so that a more general audience can easily obtain a general idea of what the project is about, and the major concepts involved. It will also typically begin with the purpose of the proposed research.  The introduction will typically be quite short, leaving the detail to the background and methodology sections.

7. Background:

It is only in the background and methodology sections that writers tend to assume that their intended audience is a specialist in their research area, and so use more technical language.

This section will include the literature review.

The purpose of a literature review is as follows:

• To become familiar with the research area and keep up to date with the current research in your area of interest.
• Identify an appropriate research question.
• Establish a theoretical framework for the research.
• Justify the need for the research.

Through the actual process of writing the literature review you, the researcher, can explore the relevant literature, formulate a problem, defend the value of the research, and compare the findings and ideas with your own. The literature review establishes a context and orientates the reader to your research topic.

The common structure of the literature review is likened to a “funnel effect”, which goes from general to more specific studies etc directly relating your intended project, ending with your research question, problem or objective.

In summary the stages of a literature review are as follows:

• General statement(s) about the field of research – the setting.
• More specific statements about the previous research.
• Statements that indicate the need for more investigation.
• Very specific statement(s) of the research question, problem or objective.

Your Trust librarians will be able to help with appropriate literature searching techniques if required.

8. Methodology:

The method or methodology section describes the steps you will follow in conducting your research. It is a very important section as assessors will scrutinise it to evaluate the feasibility and likelihood of successful completion of your proposed research.

Examine methodology sections of research articles in your research area. Arrange to discuss your research with a statistical and/or methodological specialist (Trust and other local research clinics / groups). Discuss with other researchers in your discipline the methodologies they have adopted. Consult methodology texts and statistical packages.

Overview of research:

Population/sample to be studied, including:

• How you have arrived at the sample size.
• How they will be recruited.
• Location of the research.
• Restrictions/limiting conditions.
• Sampling technique.
• Procedures.
• Analysis tools and methods.

9. Timescale:

10. Budget:

11. Ethical considerations:

• Benefits vs risks of the involvement in the project.
• Receipt of informed consent.
• Protection of participants (including data protection and storage issues).
• Privacy, minimising discomfort etc.
• Community values.

12. Dissemination strategy:

• The targets of your research eg. staff, patients, service users or carers,
• services locally and/or nationally,
• policies that drive the above services.

13. Bibliography and references:

Good luck with your project!

Useful reading: Bowling A (2002),  Research Methods in Health: Investigating Health and Health Services  2Rev Ed edition, Open University Press Polgar S and Thomas SA. (4 th   Edition 2004)   Introduction to Research in the Health Sciences.  Churchill Livingstone. MRC Good Research Practice Guidance

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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Writing Your Research Proposal

5 Things You Need To Keep Top Of Mind

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewer: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | June 2023

W riting a   high-quality research proposal   that “sells” your study and wins the favour (and approval) of your university is no small task. In this post, we’ll share five   critical dos and don’ts   to help you navigate the proposal writing process.

This post is based on an extract from   our online course ,   Research Proposal Bootcamp . In the course, we walk you through the process of developing an A-grade proposal, step by step, with plain-language explanations and loads of examples. If it’s your first time writing a research proposal, you definitely want to check that out.

Overview: 5 Proposal Writing Essentials

• Understand your university’s   requirements   and   restrictions
• Have a clearly articulated   research   problem
• Clearly communicate the   feasibility   of your research
• Pay very close attention to   ethics   policies
• Focus on writing   critically   and   concisely

1. Understand the rules of the game

All too often, we see students going through all the effort of finding a  unique and valuable topic  and drafting a meaty proposal, only to realise that they’ve missed some  critical information  regarding their university’s requirements. 

Every university is different, but they all have some sort of requirements or expectations regarding what students can and can’t research. For example:

• Restrictions regarding the  topic area  that can be research
• Restrictions regarding  data   sources  – for example, primary or secondary
• Requirements regarding  methodology  – for example, qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods-based research
• And most notably, there can be varying expectations regarding  topic originality  – does your topic need to be super original or not?

The key takeaway here is that you need to  thoroughly read through any briefing documents provided  by your university. Also, take a look at past dissertations or theses from your program to get a feel for  what   the norms are . Long story short, make sure you understand the rules of the game before you start playing.

2. Have a clearly articulated research problem

As we’ve explained many times on this blog, all   good research starts with a strong   research problem   – without a problem, you don’t have a clear justification for your research. Therefore, it’s essential that you have clarity regarding the research problem you’re going to address   before you start drafting   your proposal. From the research   problem , the   research   gap   emerges and from the research gap, your   research   aims , objectives and research   questions   emerge. These then guide your entire dissertation from start to end. 

Needless to say, all of this starts with the literature – in other words, you have to   spend time reading the existing literature   to understand the current state of knowledge. You can’t skip this all-important step. All too often, we see students make the mistake of trying to write up a proposal without having a   clear understanding of the current state   of the literature, which is just a recipe for disaster. You’ve got to take the time to understand what’s already been done before you can propose doing something new.

3. Demonstrate the feasibility of your research

One of the key concerns that reviewers or assessors have when deciding to approve or reject a research proposal is the   practicality/feasibility of the proposed research , given the student’s resources (which are usually pretty limited). You can have a brilliant research topic that’s super original and valuable, but if there is any question about whether the project is something that you can realistically pull off, you’re going to run into issues when it comes to getting your proposal accepted.

So, what does this mean for you?

First, you need to make sure that the research topic you’ve chosen and the methodology you’re planning to use is   100% safe in terms of feasibility . In other words, you need to be super certain that you can actually pull off this study. Of greatest importance here is the data collection and analysis aspect – in other words, will you be able to get access to the data you need, and will you be able to analyse it?

Second, assuming you’re 100% confident that you can pull the research off, you need to   clearly communicate that   in your research proposal. To do this, you need to proactively think about all the concerns the reviewer or supervisor might have and ensure that you clearly address these in your proposal. Remember,   the proposal is a one-way communication   – you get one shot (per submission) to make your case, and there’s generally   no Q&A opportunity . So, make it clear what you’ll be doing, what the potential risks are and how you’ll manage those risks to ensure that your study goes according to plan.

If you have the word count available, it’s a good idea to   present a project plan , ideally using something like a Gantt chart. You can also consider presenting a   risk register , where you detail the potential risks, their likelihood and impact, and your mitigation and response actions – this will show the assessor that you’ve really thought through the practicalities of your proposed project. If you want to learn more about project plans and risk registers, we cover these in detail in our proposal writing course,   Research Proposal Bootcamp , and we also provide templates that you can use. 

Need a helping hand?

4. Pay close attention to ethics policies

This one’s a biggy – and it can often be a dream crusher for students with lofty research ideas. If there’s one thing that will sink your research proposal faster than anything else, it’s   non-compliance with your   university’s research ethics policy . This is simply a non-negotiable, so don’t waste your time thinking you can convince your institution otherwise. If your proposed research runs against any aspect of your institution’s ethics policies,   it’s a no-go.

The ethics requirements for dissertations can vary depending on the field of study, institution, and country, so we can’t give you a list of things you need to do, but some common requirements that you should be aware of include things like:

• Informed   consent   – in other words, getting permission/consent from your study’s participants and allowing them to opt out at any point
• Privacy   and   confidentiality   – in other words, ensuring that you manage the data securely and respect people’s privacy
• If your research   involves   animals   (as opposed to people), you’ll need to explain how you’ll   ensure ethical treatment , how you’ll reduce harm or distress, etc.

One more thing to keep in mind is that certain types of research may be acceptable from an ethics perspective, but will require   additional levels of approval . For example, if you’re planning to study any sort of vulnerable population (e.g., children, the elderly, people with mental health conditions, etc.), this may be allowed in principle but requires additional ethical scrutiny. This often involves some sort of review board or committee, which   slows things down   quite a bit. Situations like this aren’t proposal killers, but they can create a much   more rigid environment , so you need to consider whether that works for you, given your timeline.

5. Write critically and concisely

The final item on the list is more generic but just as important to the success of your research proposal – that is,   writing   critically   and concisely . 

All too often, students fall short in terms of critical writing and end up   writing in a very descriptive manner   instead. We’ve got a   detailed blog post and video   explaining the difference between these two types of writing, so we won’t go into detail here. However, the simplest way to distinguish between the two types of writing is that   descriptive writing focuses on the what , while   analytical writing draws out the “so what”   – in other words, what’s the impact and relevance of each point that you’re making to the bigger issue at hand.

In the case of a research proposal, the core task at hand is to   convince the reader that your planned research deserves a chance . To do this, you need to show the reviewer that your research will (amongst other things) be   original ,   valuable   and   practical . So, when you’re writing, you need to keep this core objective front of mind and write with purpose, taking every opportunity to link what you’re writing about to that core purpose of the proposal.

The second aspect in relation to writing is to   write concisely . All too often, students ramble on and use far more word count than is necessary. Part of the problem here is that their writing is just too descriptive (the previous point) and part of the issue is just a   lack of editing .

The keyword here is editing – in other words, you   don’t need to write the most concise version possible on your first try   – if anything, we encourage you to just thought vomit as much as you can in the initial stages of writing. Once you’ve got everything down on paper, then you can get down to   editing and trimming down your writing . You need to get comfortable with this process of iteration and revision with everything you write – don’t try to write the perfect first draft. First,   get the thoughts out of your head and onto the paper , then edit. This is a habit that will serve you well beyond your proposal, into your actual dissertation or thesis.

Wrapping Up

To recap, the five essentials to keep in mind when writing up your research proposal include:

If you want to learn more about how to craft a top-notch research proposal, be sure to   check out our online course   for a comprehensive, step-by-step guide. Alternatively, if you’d like to get hands-on help developing your proposal, be sure to check out our   private coaching service , where we hold your hand through the research journey, step by step. 

Ace Your Research Proposal

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Writing a Scientific Research Project Proposal

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The importance of a well-written research proposal cannot be underestimated. Your research really is only as good as your proposal. A poorly written, or poorly conceived research proposal will doom even an otherwise worthy project. On the other hand, a well-written, high-quality proposal will increase your chances for success.

In this article, we’ll outline the basics of writing an effective scientific research proposal, including the differences between research proposals, grants and cover letters. We’ll also touch on common mistakes made when submitting research proposals, as well as a simple example or template that you can follow.

What is a scientific research proposal?

The main purpose of a scientific research proposal is to convince your audience that your project is worthwhile, and that you have the expertise and wherewithal to complete it. The elements of an effective research proposal mirror those of the research process itself, which we’ll outline below. Essentially, the research proposal should include enough information for the reader to determine if your proposed study is worth pursuing.

It is not an uncommon misunderstanding to think that a research proposal and a cover letter are the same things. However, they are different. The main difference between a research proposal vs cover letter content is distinct. Whereas the research proposal summarizes the proposal for future research, the cover letter connects you to the research, and how you are the right person to complete the proposed research.

There is also sometimes confusion around a research proposal vs grant application. Whereas a research proposal is a statement of intent, related to answering a research question, a grant application is a specific request for funding to complete the research proposed. Of course, there are elements of overlap between the two documents; it’s the purpose of the document that defines one or the other.

Scientific Research Proposal Format

Although there is no one way to write a scientific research proposal, there are specific guidelines. A lot depends on which journal you’re submitting your research proposal to, so you may need to follow their scientific research proposal template.

In general, however, there are fairly universal sections to every scientific research proposal. These include:

• Title: Make sure the title of your proposal is descriptive and concise. Make it catch and informative at the same time, avoiding dry phrases like, “An investigation…” Your title should pique the interest of the reader.
• Abstract: This is a brief (300-500 words) summary that includes the research question, your rationale for the study, and any applicable hypothesis. You should also include a brief description of your methodology, including procedures, samples, instruments, etc.
• Introduction: The opening paragraph of your research proposal is, perhaps, the most important. Here you want to introduce the research problem in a creative way, and demonstrate your understanding of the need for the research. You want the reader to think that your proposed research is current, important and relevant.
• Background: Include a brief history of the topic and link it to a contemporary context to show its relevance for today. Identify key researchers and institutions also looking at the problem
• Literature Review: This is the section that may take the longest amount of time to assemble. Here you want to synthesize prior research, and place your proposed research into the larger picture of what’s been studied in the past. You want to show your reader that your work is original, and adds to the current knowledge.
• Research Design and Methodology: This section should be very clearly and logically written and organized. You are letting your reader know that you know what you are going to do, and how. The reader should feel confident that you have the skills and knowledge needed to get the project done.
• Preliminary Implications: Here you’ll be outlining how you anticipate your research will extend current knowledge in your field. You might also want to discuss how your findings will impact future research needs.
• Conclusion: This section reinforces the significance and importance of your proposed research, and summarizes the entire proposal.
• References/Citations: Of course, you need to include a full and accurate list of any and all sources you used to write your research proposal.

Common Mistakes in Writing a Scientific Research Project Proposal

Remember, the best research proposal can be rejected if it’s not well written or is ill-conceived. The most common mistakes made include:

• Not providing the proper context for your research question or the problem
• Failing to reference landmark/key studies
• Losing focus of the research question or problem
• Not accurately presenting contributions by other researchers and institutions
• Incompletely developing a persuasive argument for the research that is being proposed
• Misplaced attention on minor points and/or not enough detail on major issues
• Sloppy, low-quality writing without effective logic and flow
• Incorrect or lapses in references and citations, and/or references not in proper format
• The proposal is too long – or too short

Scientific Research Proposal Example

There are countless examples that you can find for successful research proposals. In addition, you can also find examples of unsuccessful research proposals. Search for successful research proposals in your field, and even for your target journal, to get a good idea on what specifically your audience may be looking for.

While there’s no one example that will show you everything you need to know, looking at a few will give you a good idea of what you need to include in your own research proposal. Talk, also, to colleagues in your field, especially if you are a student or a new researcher. We can often learn from the mistakes of others. The more prepared and knowledgeable you are prior to writing your research proposal, the more likely you are to succeed.

One of the top reasons scientific research proposals are rejected is due to poor logic and flow. Check out our Language Editing Services to ensure a great proposal , that’s clear and concise, and properly referenced. Check our video for more information, and get started today.

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How to write a research proposal

Drafting your first research proposal can be intimidating if you’ve never written (or seen) one before. Our grad students and admissions staff have some advice on making a start.

Before you make a start

Is it a requirement for your course.

For some research courses in sciences you’ll join an existing research group so you don’t need to write a full research proposal, just a list of the groups and/or supervisors you want to work with. You might be asked to write a personal statement instead, giving your research interests and experience.

Still, for many of our research courses — especially in humanities and social sciences — your research proposal is one of the most significant parts of your application. Grades and other evidence of your academic ability and potential are important, but even if you’re academically outstanding you’ll need to show you’re a good match for the department’s staff expertise and research interests. Every course page on the University website has detailed information on what you’ll need to send with your application, so make sure that’s your first step before you continue:

There are many ways to start, I’ve heard stories about people approaching it totally differently. Yannis (DPhil in Computer Science)

How to begin?

There isn’t one right way to start writing a research proposal. First of all, make sure you’ve read your course page - it’ll have instructions for what to include in your research proposal (as well as anything to avoid), how your department will assess it, and the required word count.

Start small, think big

A research degree is a big undertaking, and it’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed at first. One way to start writing is to look back at the work you’ve already done. How does your proposed research build on this, and the other research in the area? One of the most important things you’ll be showing through your research project is that your project is achievable in the time available for your course, and that you’ve got (or know how you’ll get) the right skills and experience to pull off your plan.

They don’t expect you to be the expert, you just have to have good ideas. Be willing to challenge things and do something new. Rebecca (DPhil in Medieval and Modern Languages)

However, you don’t have to know everything - after all, you haven’t started yet! When reading your proposal, your department will be looking at the potential and originality of your research, and whether you have a solid understanding of the topic you’ve chosen.

But why Oxford?

An Admissions Officer at one of our colleges says that it’s important to explain why you’re applying to Oxford, and to your department in particular:

“Really, this is all dependent on a department. Look at the department in depth, and look at what they offer — how is it in line with your interests?”

Think about what you need to successfully execute your research plans and explain how Oxford’s academic facilities and community will support your work. Should I email a potential supervisor? Got an idea? If your course page says it’s alright to contact a supervisor (check the top of the How to apply section), it’s a good idea to get in touch with potential supervisors when you come to write your proposal.

You’re allowed to reach out to academics that you might be interested in supervising you. They can tell you if your research is something that we can support here, and how, and give you ideas. Admissions Officer 

You’ll find more information about the academics working in your area on your department’s website (follow the department links on your course page ). John (DPhil in Earth Sciences) emailed a professor who had the same research interests as he did.

“Luckily enough, he replied the next day and was keen to support me in the application.”

These discussions might help you to refine your ideas and your research proposal.

Layal says, “I discussed ideas with my supervisor — what’s feasible, what would be interesting. He supported me a lot with that, and I went away and wrote it.”

It’s also an opportunity to find out more about the programme and the department:

“Getting in touch with people who are here is a really good way to ask questions.”

Not sure how to find a potential supervisor for your research? Visit our How-to guide on finding a supervisor .

Asking for help

My supervisors helped me with my research proposal, which is great. You don’t expect that, but they were really helpful prior to my application. Nyree (DPhil in Archaeological Science)

Don’t be afraid to ask for advice and feedback as you go. For example, you could reach out to a supervisor from your current or previous degree, or to friends who are also studying and could give you some honest feedback.

More help with your application

You can find instructions for the supporting documents you’ll need to include in your application on your course page and in the Application Guide.

• Application Guide: Research proposal

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How to Write a Research Proposal?

Table of contents

• 1.1 Title Page
• 1.2 Abstract
• 1.3 Introduction
• 1.4 Literature Review
• 1.5 Hypothesis
• 1.6 Research Design and Methods
• 1.7 Specific Aims
• 1.8 Potential Pitfalls and Alternative Strategies
• 1.9 Contribution to Knowledge
• 1.10 Budget
• 1.11 Research Schedule
• 1.12 Conclusion
• 1.13 References
• 1.14 Appendices
• 2 How Long Should Research Proposals Be?
• 3 Research Methodology Overview

A good research proposal aims to outline the whole research project. Whether you make it for a class assignment or a thesis, they must be compelling and well-structured.

This guide will walk you through each section of an established research proposal. We’ll offer tips on convincing the audience of the importance of your paper. Ultimately, you’ll be able to present ideas clearly and concisely.

The Main Paper Requirements

The academic writing proposal must convince the evaluation committee that the existing research design is credible, achievable, and reproducible. Committees often include academic colleagues, policy-makers, practitioners, and lay audiences, each with different expectations.

How to write a research proposal? Follow these simple steps:

• Be practical and persuasive;
• Make broader connections;
• Aim for clarity;
• Plan before you write.

As the researcher, you should understand what can be achieved and how to convince others. Thus, state your study aims simply, avoiding jargon. Non-specialists must also be familiar with the research proposal’s aims.

In the end, your research proposal should reflect:

• How your work fits into existing knowledge;
• The new literature perspectives;
• The research question, its significance, and the implications.

The first thing readers will see is your research proposal’s title page. It should focus on the research topic, briefly capturing your study’s essence. Include your name, the date, and the affiliated institution beneath the title.

A well-thought-out title does more than just summarize the topic — it sets the tone for the entire proposal. This is the main reflection of your study. The title page should be specific enough to convey the proposed research focus. On the contrary, it has to be broad enough to capture the overall scope of your work.

Additionally, a strong title intrigues the reader, encouraging them to challenge existing theories. The relevant keywords also make it easier to reference you for future research. Think about how the title will appear in academic databases or other search engines. It affects how the broader audience will perceive your research proposal’s argument.

The abstract is the first substantive part of your research proposal. It should be concise yet comprehensive enough to give a clear snapshot of your entire project. If you make it ChatGPT generated, ensure the abstract maintains a professional tone. The abstract size for a research proposal varies between 150 and 250 words.

It should review:

• The problem you’re addressing;
• The research objectives;
• The expected outcomes.

Although it comes first in the document, writing the abstract last is easier. Once you’ve detailed the main research methods, you’ll feel comfortable summarizing them.

Introduction

The introduction of your research proposal provides the essential study context. This section explains the background of your research and its significance. It also lays the groundwork for the research methodology. Here, you’ll outline the main research question that your study aims to address. Make sure you give the reader a clear understanding of the problem.

This section must convey the importance of your research. An introduction does not only explain your research but also why it matters. By the end of this section, the reader should feel confident that your study is both relevant and necessary.

Before writing the introduction, consider the deeper context of your research proposal. Ask yourself: Does this study respond to a gap after a thorough literature review? Does it address a new development in the field or tackle a pressing issue? The context will help you articulate the necessity of your data analysis and its potential impact.

Take a look at these simple tips to make an informative introduction:

• Be clear about how your study will contribute to existing knowledge;
• Highlight the potential value of your data analysis;
• Convince the reader that your research is essential to the whole field;
• Remember who you are writing for. Tailor the introduction to the level of expertise your audience has. Whether it’s academic peers, potential funders, or policy-makers, ensure that your introduction speaks to their concerns.

Literature Review

The literature review summarizes and analyzes previous research related to your topic. It is a critical part of a research proposal, where you demonstrate the current state of studies and find the gaps to fill.

There’s a rule of 5 C’s to get started with your literature review.

As you compile your literature review, focus on relevant case analysis and research topics, depending on your audience. Highlight key academic findings and discuss how your research will challenge them. Taking ideas from existing literature can frame your study for a broader academic conversation.

This section presumes to discuss the expected outcomes of your research. A hypothesis is a testable prediction that arises from your literature review. It should be specific, measurable, and relate to your research question.

When working on this section, align it with the main study objectives. You might rather set research questions than a formal hypothesis if you conduct exploratory research. This section is critical for guiding your research design and methods.

Research Design and Methods

In this part, outline your research approach (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods), data collection methods (e.g., surveys, interviews, experiments), and analysis techniques.

The research design section has to convince reviewers that your study is feasible and methodologically sound. Therefore, you should describe your research methodology in detail. For instance, explain why this method is appropriate if your study involves a case analysis.

Ensure you consider ethical implications, particularly if your research involves human subjects. For ethics paper topics , take extra space to discuss your approach to the study.

Specific Aims

These aims are not just for the reader. They play a huge role in keeping your study on track. You stay focused and organized by clearly defining your research ambitions. It’s very important if your research proposal involves complex topics. Specific goals, in this case, prevent you from becoming sidetracked.

If you’re looking for research proposal ideas, start by identifying manageable aspects of your topic. Focus on goals that are significant yet feasible within the project’s timeframe This approach not only makes your academic writing more realistic but also increases the likelihood of producing meaningful results.

Specific aims aligned with your overall research objectives will strengthen your research proposal. Plus, they will show reviewers that you have a clear and actionable plan. Each aim should concisely describe what you intend to accomplish through data analysis.

When drafting this section, ensure that the specific aims are achievable within the project’s scope. Think of them as small steps toward your main research question.

Potential Pitfalls and Alternative Strategies

There’s no project without a risk. In this section, you’ll identify potential challenges that could arise during your study. You also have to propose working strategies to overcome them. This will demonstrate your ability to anticipate problems and adapt your research plan if necessary.

Potential pitfalls of a research proposal include:

• Data collection issues;
• Unexpected results;
• Ethical concerns.

Acknowledging these risks will show readers you have a well-thought-out plan for managing uncertainties in your research.

Contribution to Knowledge

This section of your research proposal highlights the potential impact of your study. Explain how your research will contribute to the existing body of knowledge. Use either a literature gap or a practical issue to introduce a fresh perspective.

When discussing relevance, connect it with research topics for high school , university, or professional fields based on your audience. Think about how people can apply your study to real-world situations or use it for further research proposals.

The budget section is a detailed account of the financial resources required to complete your research. This includes costs for materials, equipment, personnel, travel, and other expenses.

When preparing the budget, ensure that it aligns with the scope and scale of your research proposal. For example, explain their relevance if your study involves specialized equipment or extensive data collection.

Remember to be specific and realistic in your budget estimates, providing a clear justification for each item.

Research Schedule

The research proposal schedule outlines the timeline for your study, including key milestones and deadlines. A well-organized schedule is the key to your proposal’s success.

Here are some practical tips to start scheduling:

• Be realistic about the deadline for each phase of the study;
• Consider potential delays;
• Accommodate unforeseen circumstances.

This section helps reviewers understand the workability of your research project within the proposed time frame.

Concluding the research proposal is your final opportunity to prove your study’s value. It should briefly summarize the main ideas highlighted in the paper body.

Make sure you restate the research objectives and its potential contributions to the field. Keep this section brief and focused. Leave the reader with a clear understanding of your research goals and significance.

This section lists all the sources you cited earlier in the proposal. Use the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) as your institution or funding body requires. Ensure to include all relevant literature you discussed in the other sections of your research paper.

Accurate referencing aims to mention the original authors, but it also strengthens your own research credibility. Check if all the references are accurate and complete.

Appendices are supplementary materials that provide additional relevant information. These can include data tables, questionnaires, consent forms, or other supportive documents.

Include appendices only if they add value to your research proposal. Label and reference each appendix in the main text. This section is particularly useful if you’re working on complex research proposal ideas that require additional documentation.

How Long Should Research Proposals Be?

Research proposals for bachelor’s and master’s theses are typically a few pages long. On the contrary, the outlines for more substantial projects, like dissertation proposals, are longer and more detailed.

A research proposal’s main goal is clearly outlining what your research will involve and achieve. Thus, ensure that all the essential elements and content are included without focusing on a page count.

Research Methodology Overview

Be open to discussing your research plans:

• Are you performing qualitative or quantitative research?
• Is there experimental or descriptive research?
• Avoid inconsistent or inappropriate tone to maintain a formal voice and prevent potential implications;
• Describe the research plan with a detailed budget, and remember ethical considerations if you’re working with humans.

For example, if you’re conducting research in the social and behavioral sciences, discover the population you’re studying. Combine your research aims with current knowledge to produce a decent theoretical framework for your initial pitch. Think of it as your very own project with a practical value.

If you’re unsure how to write a research proposal, remember that tools like ChatGPT can help generate content. However, ensure that you thoroughly check the paper for coherence and originality. With a clear flow of completing research proposals, you’ll be on the right way to developing a successful project.

A research proposal requires careful planning and a keen eye for detail. This article’s guidelines will help you create a comprehensive and persuasive paper. If you are running out of time, PapersOwl will gladly help. Just say, “ Do my research paper ” for immediate online assistance.

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Blog Business How to Write a Research Proposal: A Step-by-Step

How to Write a Research Proposal: A Step-by-Step

Written by: Danesh Ramuthi Nov 29, 2023

A research proposal is a structured outline for a planned study on a specific topic. It serves as a roadmap, guiding researchers through the process of converting their research idea into a feasible project. 

The aim of a research proposal is multifold: it articulates the research problem, establishes a theoretical framework, outlines the research methodology and highlights the potential significance of the study. Importantly, it’s a critical tool for scholars seeking grant funding or approval for their research projects.

Crafting a good research proposal requires not only understanding your research topic and methodological approaches but also the ability to present your ideas clearly and persuasively. Explore Venngage’s Proposal Maker and Research Proposals Templates to begin your journey in writing a compelling research proposal.

What to include in a research proposal?

In a research proposal, include a clear statement of your research question or problem, along with an explanation of its significance. This should be followed by a literature review that situates your proposed study within the context of existing research. 

Your proposal should also outline the research methodology, detailing how you plan to conduct your study, including data collection and analysis methods.

Additionally, include a theoretical framework that guides your research approach, a timeline or research schedule, and a budget if applicable. It’s important to also address the anticipated outcomes and potential implications of your study. A well-structured research proposal will clearly communicate your research objectives, methods and significance to the readers.

How to format a research proposal?

Formatting a research proposal involves adhering to a structured outline to ensure clarity and coherence. While specific requirements may vary, a standard research proposal typically includes the following elements:

• Title Page: Must include the title of your research proposal, your name and affiliations. The title should be concise and descriptive of your proposed research.
• Abstract: A brief summary of your proposal, usually not exceeding 250 words. It should highlight the research question, methodology and the potential impact of the study.
• Introduction: Introduces your research question or problem, explains its significance, and states the objectives of your study.
• Literature review: Here, you contextualize your research within existing scholarship, demonstrating your knowledge of the field and how your research will contribute to it.
• Methodology: Outline your research methods, including how you will collect and analyze data. This section should be detailed enough to show the feasibility and thoughtfulness of your approach.
• Timeline: Provide an estimated schedule for your research, breaking down the process into stages with a realistic timeline for each.
• Budget (if applicable): If your research requires funding, include a detailed budget outlining expected cost.
• References/Bibliography: List all sources referenced in your proposal in a consistent citation style.

How to write a research proposal in 11 steps?

Writing a research proposal template in structured steps ensures a comprehensive and coherent presentation of your research project. Let’s look at the explanation for each of the steps here:  

Step 1: Title and Abstract Step 2: Introduction Step 3: Research objectives Step 4: Literature review Step 5: Methodology Step 6: Timeline Step 7: Resources Step 8: Ethical considerations Step 9: Expected outcomes and significance Step 10: References Step 11: Appendices

Step 1: title and abstract.

Select a concise, descriptive title and write an abstract summarizing your research question, objectives, methodology and expected outcomes​​. The abstract should include your research question, the objectives you aim to achieve, the methodology you plan to employ and the anticipated outcomes. 

Step 2: Introduction

In this section, introduce the topic of your research, emphasizing its significance and relevance to the field. Articulate the research problem or question in clear terms and provide background context, which should include an overview of previous research in the field. If you are short on time, it’s helpful to refer to strategies on how to write an essay fast to ensure that you can quickly organize your thoughts and present your research effectively without sacrificing quality.

Step 3: Research objectives

Here, you’ll need to outline specific, clear and achievable objectives that align with your research problem. These objectives should be well-defined, focused and measurable, serving as the guiding pillars for your study. They help in establishing what you intend to accomplish through your research and provide a clear direction for your investigation.

Step 4: Literature review

In this part, conduct a thorough review of existing literature related to your research topic. This involves a detailed summary of key findings and major contributions from previous research. Identify existing gaps in the literature and articulate how your research aims to fill these gaps. The literature review not only shows your grasp of the subject matter but also how your research will contribute new insights or perspectives to the field.

Step 5: Methodology

Describe the design of your research and the methodologies you will employ. This should include detailed information on data collection methods, instruments to be used and analysis techniques. Justify the appropriateness of these methods for your research​​.

Step 6: Timeline

Construct a detailed timeline that maps out the major milestones and activities of your research project. Break the entire research process into smaller, manageable tasks and assign realistic time frames to each. This timeline should cover everything from the initial research phase to the final submission, including periods for data collection, analysis and report writing. 

It helps in ensuring your project stays on track and demonstrates to reviewers that you have a well-thought-out plan for completing your research efficiently.

Step 7: Resources

Identify all the resources that will be required for your research, such as specific databases, laboratory equipment, software or funding. Provide details on how these resources will be accessed or acquired. 

If your research requires funding, explain how it will be utilized effectively to support various aspects of the project. 

Step 8: Ethical considerations

Address any ethical issues that may arise during your research. This is particularly important for research involving human subjects. Describe the measures you will take to ensure ethical standards are maintained, such as obtaining informed consent, ensuring participant privacy, and adhering to data protection regulations. 

Here, in this section you should reassure reviewers that you are committed to conducting your research responsibly and ethically.

Step 9: Expected outcomes and significance

Articulate the expected outcomes or results of your research. Explain the potential impact and significance of these outcomes, whether in advancing academic knowledge, influencing policy or addressing specific societal or practical issues. 

Step 10: References

Compile a comprehensive list of all the references cited in your proposal. Adhere to a consistent citation style (like APA or MLA) throughout your document. The reference section not only gives credit to the original authors of your sourced information but also strengthens the credibility of your proposal.

Step 11: Appendices

Include additional supporting materials that are pertinent to your research proposal. This can be survey questionnaires, interview guides, detailed data analysis plans or any supplementary information that supports the main text. 

Appendices provide further depth to your proposal, showcasing the thoroughness of your preparation.

Research proposal FAQs

1. how long should a research proposal be.

The length of a research proposal can vary depending on the requirements of the academic institution, funding body or specific guidelines provided. Generally, research proposals range from 500 to 1500 words or about one to a few pages long. It’s important to provide enough detail to clearly convey your research idea, objectives and methodology, while being concise. Always check

2. Why is the research plan pivotal to a research project?

The research plan is pivotal to a research project because it acts as a blueprint, guiding every phase of the study. It outlines the objectives, methodology, timeline and expected outcomes, providing a structured approach and ensuring that the research is systematically conducted. 

A well-crafted plan helps in identifying potential challenges, allocating resources efficiently and maintaining focus on the research goals. It is also essential for communicating the project’s feasibility and importance to stakeholders, such as funding bodies or academic supervisors.

Mastering how to write a research proposal is an essential skill for any scholar, whether in social and behavioral sciences, academic writing or any field requiring scholarly research. From this article, you have learned key components, from the literature review to the research design, helping you develop a persuasive and well-structured proposal.

Remember, a good research proposal not only highlights your proposed research and methodology but also demonstrates its relevance and potential impact.

For additional support, consider utilizing Venngage’s Proposal Maker and Research Proposals Templates , valuable tools in crafting a compelling proposal that stands out.

Whether it’s for grant funding, a research paper or a dissertation proposal, these resources can assist in transforming your research idea into a successful submission.

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17 Research Proposal Examples

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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]

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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.

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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.

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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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Write a Research Proposal

Structure and content, introduction (to topic and problem), research question (or hypothesis, thesis statement, aim), proposed methodology, anticipated findings, contributions - impact and significance, tables and figures (if applicable).

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The structure and content of a research proposal can vary depending upon the discipline, purpose, and target audience. For example, a graduate thesis proposal and a Tri-Council grant proposal will have different guidelines for length and required sections.

Before you begin writing, be sure to talk with your supervisor to gain a clear understanding of their specific expectations, and continually check in with them throughout the writing process.

• Organizing your Research Proposal - Template This 6-page fillable pdf handout provides writers with a template to begin outlining sections of their own research proposal.

This template can be used in conjunction with the sections below.

What are some keywords for your research?

• Should give a clear indication of your proposed research approach or key question
• Should be concise and descriptive

Writing Tip: When constructing your title, think about the search terms you would use to find this research online.

Important: Write this section last, after you have completed drafting the proposal. Or if you are required to draft a preliminary abstract, then remember to rewrite the abstract after you have completed drafting the entire proposal because some information may need to be revised.

The abstract should provide a brief overview of the entire proposal. Briefly state the research question (or hypothesis, thesis statement, aim), the problem and rationale, the proposed methods, and the proposed analyses or expected results.

The purpose of the introduction is to communicate the information that is essential for the reader to understand the overall area of concern. Be explicit. Outline why this research must be conducted and try to do so without unnecessary jargon or overwhelming detail.

Start with a short statement that establishes the overall area of concern. Avoid too much detail. Get to the point. Communicate only information essential for the reader’s comprehension. Avoid unnecessary technical language and jargon. Answer the question, "What is this study about?"

Questions to consider:

• What is your topic area, and what is the problem within that topic?
• What does the relevant literature say about the problem? – Be selective and focused.
• What are the critical, theoretical, or methodological issues directly related to the problem to be investigated?
• What are the reasons for undertaking the research? – This is the answer to the "so what?" question.

The following sections - listed as part of the introduction - are intended as a guide for drafting a research proposal. Most introductions include these following components. However, be sure to clarify with your advisor or carefully review the grant guidelines to be sure to comply with the proposal genre expectations of your specific discipline.

Broad topic and focus of study

• Briefly describe the broad topic of your research area, and then clearly explain the narrowed focus of your specific study.

Importance of topic/field of study

• Position your project in a current important research area.
• Address the “So what?” question directly, and as soon as possible.
• Provide context for the reader to understand the problem you are about to pose or research question you are asking.

Problem within field of study

• Identify the problem that you are investigating in your study.

Gap(s) in knowledge

• Identify something missing from the literature.
• What is unknown in this specific research area? This is what your study will explore and where you will attempt to provide new insights.
• Is there a reason this gap exists? Where does the current literature agree and where does it disagree? How you fill this gap (at least partially) with your research?
• Convince your reader that the problem has been appropriately defined and that the study is worth doing. Be explicit and detailed.
• Develop your argument logically and provide evidence.
• Explain why you are the person to do this project. Summarize any previous work or studies you may have undertaken in this field or research area.

Research question or hypothesis

• Foreshadow outcomes of your research. What is the question you are hoping to answer? What are the specific hypotheses to be tested and/or issues to be explored?
• Use questions when research is exploratory.
• Use declarative statements when existing knowledge enables predictions.
• List any secondary or subsidiary questions if applicable.

Purpose statement

• State the purpose of your research. Be succinct and simple.
• Why do you want to do this study?
• What is your research trying to find out?

Goals for proposed research

• Write a brief, broad statement of what you hope to accomplish and why (e.g., Improve something… Understand something… ). Are there specific measurable outcomes that you will accomplish in your study? 
• You will have a chance to go into greater detail in the research question and methodology sections.

Background or context (or literature review)

• What does the existing research on this topic say?
• Briefly state what you already know and introduce literature most relevant to your research.
• Indicate main research findings, methodologies, and interpretations from previous related studies.
• Discuss how your question or hypothesis relates to what is already known.
• Position your research within the field’s developing body of knowledge.
• Explain and support your choice of methodology or theoretical framework.

The research question is the question you are hoping to answer in your research project. It is important to know how you should write your research question into your proposal. Some proposals include

• a research question, written as a question
• or, a hypothesis as a potential response to the research question
• or, a thesis statement as an argument that answers the research question
• or, aims and objects as accomplishment or operational statements

Foreshadow the outcomes of your research. Are you trying to improve something? Understand something? Advocate for a social responsibility?

Research question

What is the question you are hoping to answer?

Subsidiary questions (if applicable)

• Does your major research question hinge on a few smaller questions? Which will you address first?

Your hypothesis should provide one (of many) possible answers to your research question.

• What are the specific hypotheses to be tested and/or issues to be explored?
• What results do you anticipate for this experiment?

Usually a hypothesis is written to show the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. Your hypothesis must be

• An expected relationship between variables
• Falsifiable
• Consistent with the existing body of knowledge

Thesis statement

Your thesis statement is a clear, concise statement of what you are arguing and why it is important. For more support on writing thesis statements, check out these following resources:

• 5 Types of Thesis Statements - Learn about five different types of thesis statements to help you choose the best type for your research.
• Templates for Writing Thesis Statements - This template provides a two-step guide for writing thesis statements.
• 5 Questions to Strengthen Your Thesis Statement - Follow these five steps to strengthen your thesis statements.

Aims and objectives

Aims are typically broader statements of what you are trying to accomplish and may or may not be measurable. Objectives are operational statements indicating specifically how you will accomplish the aims of your project.

• What are you trying to accomplish?
• How are you going to address the research question?

Be specific and make sure your aims or objectives are realistic. You want to convey that it is feasible to answer this question with the objectives you have proposed.

Make it clear that you know what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and why it will work by relating your methodology to previous research. If there isn’t much literature on the topic, you can relate your methodology to your own preliminary research or point out how your methodology tackles something that may have been overlooked in previous studies.

Explain how you will conduct this research. Specify scope and parameters (e.g., geographic locations, demographics). Limit your inclusion of literature to only essential articles and studies.

• How will these methods produce an answer to your research question?
• How do the methods relate to the introduction and literature review?
• Have you done any previous work (or read any literature) that would inform your choices about methodology?
• Are your methods feasible and adequate? How do you know?
• What obstacles might you encounter in conducting the research, and how will you overcome them?

This section should include the following components that are relevant to your study and research methodologies:

Object(s) of study / participants / population

Provide detail about your objects of study (e.g., literary texts, swine, government policies, children, health care systems).

• Who/what are they?
• How will you find, select, or collect them?
• How feasible is it to find/select them?
• Are there any limitations to sample/data collection?
• Do you need to travel to collect samples or visit archives, etc.?
• Do you need to obtain Research Ethics Board (REB) approval to include human participants?

Theoretical frame or critical methodology

• Explain the theories or disciplinary methodologies that your research draws from or builds upon.

Materials and apparatus

• What are your survey or interview methods? (You may include a copy of questionnaires, etc.)
• Do you require any special equipment?
• How do you plan to purchase or construct or obtain this equipment?

Procedure and design

What exactly will you do? Include variables selected or manipulated, randomization, controls, the definition of coding categories, etc.

• Is it a questionnaire? Laboratory experiment? Series of interviews? Systematic review? Interpretative analysis?
• How will subjects be assigned to experimental conditions?
• What precautions will be used to control possible confounding variables?
• How long do you expect to spend on each step, and do you have a backup plan?

Data analysis and statistical procedures

• How do you plan to statistically analyze your data?
• What analyses will you conduct?
• How will the analyses contribute to the objectives?

What are the expected outcomes from your methods? Describe your expected results in relation to your hypothesis. Support these results using existing literature.

• What results would prove or disprove your hypotheses and validate your methodology, and why?
• What obstacles might you encounter in obtaining your results, and how will you deal with those obstacles?
• How will you analyze and interpret your results?

This section may be the most important part of your proposal. Make sure to emphasize how this research is significant to the related field, and how it will impact the broader community, now and in the future.

Convince your reader why this project should be funded above the other potential projects. Why is this research useful and relevant? Why is it useful to others? Answer the question “so what?”

Specific contributions

• How will your anticipated results specifically contribute to fulfilling the aims, objectives, or goals of your research?
• Will these be direct or indirect contributions? – theoretical or applied?
• How will your research contribute to the larger topic area or research discipline?

Impact and significance

• How will your research contribute to the research field of study?
• How will your research contribute to the larger topic addressed in your introduction?
• How will this research extend other work that you have done?
• How will this contribution/significance convince the reader that this research will be useful and relevant?
• Who else might find your research useful and relevant? (e.g., other research streams, policy makers, professional fields, etc.)

Provide a list of some of the most important sources that you will need to use for the introduction and background sections, plus your literature review and theoretical framework. 

What are some of the most important sources that you will need to use for the intro/background/lit review/theoretical framework? 

• Find out what style guide you are required to follow (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
• Follow the guidelines in our Cite Your Sources  Libguide to format citations and create a reference list or bibliography.

Attach this list to your proposal as a separate page unless otherwise specified.

This section should include only visuals that help illustrate the preliminary results, methods, or expected results.

• What visuals will you use to help illustrate the methods or expected results?
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The Dos And Don’ts Of Proposal Writing

Before jumping into the writing process, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the purpose of your proposal. This is where many writers make common mistakes — they rush into drafting without fully grasping the problem they are addressing or the goal they need to accomplish. Every proposal, regardless of the industry or objective, exists to solve a problem, present a solution, secure funding, or gain approval for a project. When you know the exact purpose, it’s easier to tailor your approach, making sure the content is relevant and convincing to your audience.

Some key professional tips include researching the expectations of your stakeholders and understanding what success looks like from their point of view. If you can clearly articulate how your proposal aligns with the objectives and needs of your audience, you’ll increase your chances of success. A fundamental part of proposal best practices is making sure your document has a clear purpose that is effectively communicated from the beginning. This will set the tone for the rest of the proposal and help you stay focused on the goal throughout the writing process.

Without a firm grip on the underlying goal of your proposal, your writing might lack direction, leading to a proposal that seems disconnected or difficult to follow. To avoid this, regularly check back on the problem you’re attempting to solve, and ensure that each section of your proposal contributes toward solving that problem. Understanding this purpose will help you maintain consistency and logic, reduce unnecessary content, and ultimately persuade your audience more effectively.

Do thorough research before writing

Once you understand your proposal’s purpose, the next critical step is doing thorough research before you start writing. A well-researched proposal is substantially more convincing because it demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to gather relevant data, investigate possible solutions, and understand the broader context of the issue you’re addressing. One of the common mistakes in proposal writing is presenting an argument that isn’t backed by solid evidence or dependable sources. Stakeholders want to see proof that your ideas are based on more than just speculation; they want facts, data, and a clear understanding of the problem at hand. Professional tips often emphasize that research solidifies your credibility and builds trust with your audience.

Begin by investigating all the background information related to the problem you are proposing to solve. This typically involves studying industry trends, reviewing similar proposals, studying past projects (both those that succeeded and failed), and speaking to key stakeholders who might offer insights. The more familiar you are with the terrain, the more likely you’ll be able to craft a proposal that resonates with decision-makers. Additionally, understanding your audience’s existing knowledge base will help you present information in a way that is neither too simplistic nor too complex. Research also ensures that you’re proposing realistic solutions: if your audiences see that you have forecasted potential risks, anticipated challenges, and developed plans to address them, your chances of approval greatly increase.

However, “too much” research can sometimes become overwhelming, making it difficult to begin the writing process. Proposal best practices suggest narrowing your research down to the most relevant information and avoiding overloading your readers with unnecessary details. Use research as a tool to support your proposal, not as the proposal itself. This will help you craft a stronger, more focused narrative, as you’ll be able to prioritize key points that matter most. Clear structure, supported with evidence, will make your proposal more compelling and stand out from poorly researched or vague proposals.

Avoid vague language and jargon

When writing a proposal, one of the most common mistakes is using vague language or industry-specific jargon that your readers might not fully understand. While certain technical terms may be necessary, it’s important to find the balance between sounding knowledgeable and being approachable. Oversaturating your proposal with jargon can alienate your audience, especially if they’re not familiar with the terminology, making your ideas seem inaccessible or overly complex. Using vague language, on the other hand, can leave your proposal open to interpretation, diluting the clarity of your intentions. If any of your audience members need to reread sections just to grasp basic concepts, they’re less likely to see the value in your proposal.

Avoiding these pitfalls is crucial when seeking approval or funding. To ensure clarity, professional tips often recommend using precise, straightforward language wherever possible. Your reader should easily understand the problem, the solution you are proposing, and the benefits of that solution without having to navigate through overly technical or ambiguous terms. For example, rather than saying, “Leverage synergistic paradigms,” express clearly what you mean in a less convoluted way such as, “Collaborate to achieve better results.” Direct and concise language improves communication and leaves a stronger impact.

Another key aspect of writing a proposal is to always put yourself in the shoes of your audience. Will a non-expert in your field understand the jargon you’re using? If the answer is no, try to either redefine these terms in simpler ways or provide a brief explanation the first time they occur. Tailor your choice of words based on who the decision-makers are, whether they are executives, board members, technical experts, or funders. Using plain language doesn’t undermine your expertise; it allows your expertise to shine through by emphasizing the strength of your ideas, rather than getting bogged down in convoluted phrasing.

Common mistakes happen when writers mistake complexity for professionalism, assuming more complicated language will make the proposal seem more authoritative. Instead, you should focus on clarity and precision. Proposal best practices dictate that simplicity often wins over complexity because it fosters better understanding and reduces the risk of confusion. In some cases, industry-specific terms may be unavoidable, but even here, clarity remains paramount. Offer context or define technical terms, especially if you’re writing for audiences who might be unfamiliar with your field. Accessible language builds trust and increases the likelihood of approval, as your readers will better appreciate the value of your proposed solution.

Structure your proposal clearly and logically

Once you’ve done your research and are ready to write, it’s crucial to structure your proposal clearly and logically. A well-organized proposal is easier to read, more persuasive, and highly likely to maintain the attention of your stakeholders. If your proposal is chaotic or lacks cohesion, decision-makers might struggle to fully grasp your arguments, no matter how compelling the content might be. One of the common mistakes in proposal writing is failing to present ideas in a structured manner, which often results in readers losing interest or getting confused. Therefore, ensuring a smooth flow from one section to the next is a key part of proposal best practices.

Start with a strong introduction that clearly states the purpose of the proposal. The introduction should make it immediately apparent what problem you’re addressing and why it matters. From there, move into clearly defined sections that cover each aspect of your proposal, including background information, proposed solutions, timelines, budgets, and any supporting research or data. Professional tips suggest using headings and subheadings to break up the content, making it easier for readers to digest the information. Good structure not only supports readability but also allows decision-makers to quickly find the specific information they’re searching for, especially if they only have limited time to review your document.

Another important tip is to maintain a logical flow throughout the proposal. Each section should naturally follow the one before it, building upon the previous points to reinforce your argument. For example, after laying out the problem, transition smoothly into why your solution is the best option, and then provide supporting evidence or data to back up your claims. Following this clear and logical stream of thought will enhance the likelihood that your readers will follow along and be persuaded by your arguments. Avoid jumping between unrelated points or rehashing old information unnecessarily—this can create confusion and make your proposal seem disorganized.

Using visuals such as graphs, charts, or images can further improve readability and make your proposal more engaging. However, don’t rely on visuals alone—they should complement the text, not replace it. Similarly, use bullet points or numbered lists when appropriate to break down complex information into simpler, digestible bites. This is particularly useful when you’re presenting several points or steps in a process. Just ensure that your list format is used judiciously and doesn’t fragment the overall flow of the proposal.

Lastly, your conclusion should be just as deliberate and well-structured as the rest of the proposal. Summarize the key takeaways, reaffirm the benefits of your solution, and give your stakeholders a clear call to action—whether it’s approving funding, scheduling a follow-up meeting, or providing feedback. A strong conclusion that directly links back to the objectives stated at the beginning can leave a lasting impression and increase the likelihood of successfully getting approval for your proposal.

Proofread and revise before submission

Once the writing is complete, one of the most critical steps often overlooked is the proofreading and revision process. No matter how well you structure your proposal or research the content, simple errors in grammar, spelling, or formatting can detract from the professionalism of the document and hurt your chances of approval. One of the most common mistakes is rushing through this final stage, submitting a proposal that looks sloppy and unpolished. Thorough proofreading allows you to catch these errors and fine-tune your presentation, ensuring that the final version of the document is as professional and compelling as possible.

Start by reviewing your proposal for basic grammar and spelling issues. While this may seem obvious, even small missteps can leave a negative impression on your audience, signaling carelessness or a lack of attention to detail. Tools like spell-checkers and grammar programs can help, but professional tips suggest reading each section out loud to catch awkward phrasing or unclear sentences that automated tools might overlook. Reading aloud forces you to slow down and engage with the text, helping you pinpoint areas where the flow might be disrupted. This technique can also be valuable when ensuring that your ideas are communicated logically and cohesively.

After addressing surface-level errors, it’s important to dive deeper into the content. Re-read the proposal from the perspective of your stakeholders. Are your arguments clear? Do the solutions you propose align with the problems you’ve outlined? Are there any inconsistencies between the different sections? Sometimes, sections written at different points in the process might inadvertently contradict each other, and it’s essential to review the entire document to ensure cohesion. A best practice is to set the proposal aside for a day or so after completing the first draft. Coming back to it with fresh eyes can help reveal weak spots or errors that you might have missed in your initial review.

Another significant area to focus on during revision is formatting. Common mistakes in proposal proofreading often involve missing pagination, inconsistent font sizes or styles, or misaligned headings. These might seem like minor details, but they can weaken the overall professionalism of your proposal and distract from the content. Consistency in formatting enhances readability and credibility, which is why proposal best practices typically advise writers to standardize fonts, spacing, and margins from the outset. A polished layout communicates that you care about the details, and this attention to detail can translate to a better reception by your audience.

Finally, consider involving a second pair of eyes in the proofreading process. Whether it’s a colleague, supervisor, or even a professional editor, having someone else review your proposal can help catch mistakes you may have overlooked. Crucially, an external reviewer can provide valuable feedback on the clarity and overall quality of your document. Professional tips frequently recommend this collaborative approach because someone removed from the writing process might notice gaps or areas where additional explanation is needed. They may also offer insights on aspects of your proposal that aren’t as persuasive or clear as you intended, giving you the chance to strengthen those sections before submission.

Making sure your proposal is error-free and well-organized enhances its impact, bolstering your chances of success. Extensive revision and proofreading not only improve readability but also ensure that your proposal leaves a lasting, positive impression on its audience. A polished, well-revised proposal stands out from the competition and demonstrates a high level of commitment to the goals you are hoping to achieve.

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• Best Practices for a Winning Proposal for Bid

by Heather Taylor | Nov 5, 2024 | Government Contracts

Looking to improve your proposal for bid? This guide covers the essential practices and elements to make your bid proposal stand out and win projects by focusing on an effective bid proposal that thoroughly reviews provided documents, requirements, and conducts research to show commitment and interest in the client’s needs.

Key Takeaways

A bid proposal is a comprehensive document detailing the scope, timeline, and costs of a project, aimed at attracting clients by showcasing a company’s capabilities and professional approach.

Understanding the differences between RFP, RFQ, and RFI is crucial in tailoring responses effectively to meet specific client needs and improve the chances of winning bids.

Including key elements like an executive summary, company profile, customer testimonials, scope of work, project methodology, timeline, budget overview, and terms and conditions ensure that bid proposals are thorough, professional, and persuasive.

Understanding a Proposal for Bid

A bid proposal is more than just a price offer; it is a comprehensive document that outlines specific plans for a project, including the timeframe and costs involved. Bid proposals are written by companies and individuals to attract clients, as well as to professionally demonstrate their competence. This can help them to stand out in competitive markets and win new business opportunities. Before writing a bid proposal, it’s fundamental to understand the project requirements to thoroughly cover key aspects such as research, client information, and project scope. Understanding the project and client is a key element in an effective bid proposal, as it shows commitment and interest in the client’s needs.

For any contractor, mastering the skill to write a bid proposal can significantly improve the bid-hit ratio and aid in securing new prospects. A well-crafted bid proposal not only aims to make your bid stand out from the competition but also demonstrates your marketing prowess and understanding of the client’s needs and goals. Ultimately, bid proposals play a pivotal role in securing contracts and growing your business.

Definition of a Proposal for Bid

A bid proposal is a detailed document that outlines the scope of work for a project. Its primary goal is to attract prospective clients and maintain current ones by showcasing your ability to complete the project. Including a signature field for the prospective client can add a personal and professional touch, making them feel closer to starting their project. Depending on the industry and project, bid proposals can vary, but the essential elements include:

The client’s name

Your business details

Project description

Services provided

Pricing estimate

Terms and conditions

Estimated timeline

The competitive bid process aims to secure the best possible quality and price for products and services. By including all necessary information and presenting it professionally, a bid proposal becomes an effective tool for winning contracts and building long-term client relationships.

Differences Between a Bid and a Proposal for Bid

While a bid is a straightforward offer of a price, a bid proposal is a comprehensive document that details the bid and emphasizes the bidder’s value proposition. A simple bid might just state the cost of completing a project, but a bid proposal provides a full picture, including methodology, timeline, and cost breakdowns, making it a formal and professional way to present your plan.

By offering more than just a price, a bid proposal helps clients understand why your company is the best choice for the project. This comprehensive approach not only highlights your capabilities but also builds trust and confidence with potential clients.

Types of Bid Requests

Bid requests typically fall into three main categories: Request for Proposal (RFP), Request for Quotation (RFQ), and Request for Information (RFI). Each type serves a different purpose in the bidding process, guiding how you should respond and what information to include in your bid proposal.

Discerning the differences between these bid requests is vital to effectively tailor your responses. Whether it’s providing detailed plans in an RFP, offering precise pricing in an RFQ, or supplying general information in an RFI, knowing what each request entails will help you craft a more compelling proposal.

Request for Proposal (RFP)

A Request for Proposal (RFP) is a formal document that asks suppliers to submit comprehensive proposals for a specific project or service. RFPs are typically used for complex projects where detailed plans are needed, such as government contracts. They describe the project, its goals, and the organization sponsoring it, while also outlining the bidding process and contract terms.

Suppliers responding to an RFP must address detailed requirements for service, quality, and capability. Providing thorough and well-organized responses allows vendors to demonstrate their ability to meet the project’s needs and differentiate themselves from the competition.

Request for Quotation (RFQ)

An RFQ involves obtaining precise cost estimates for a well-defined scope of goods or services. It is typically more straightforward and price-centric compared to an RFP or RFI.

When the purchaser knows exactly what they need, an RFQ is used to seek the best price from vendors, making it a critical component of competitive pricing strategies.

Request for Information (RFI)

An RFI is a preliminary document that is utilized in the early stages of project planning to gather general information about products, services, or vendors. It serves as a means to collect essential information before making important decisions. RFIs are commonly used when buyers are considering different solutions available in the marketplace and want to gather relevant information to make informed decisions. Some key points about RFIs include:

RFIs are used to gather information about potential products, services, or vendors

They are used in the early stages of project planning

RFIs help buyers make informed decisions by collecting essential information

They are commonly used when considering different solutions in the marketplace

By using RFIs, buyers can evaluate different suppliers’ capabilities and product offerings before moving forward with a more detailed bid request like an RFP or RFQ. This initial step is crucial for narrowing down potential vendors and understanding the available options.

Key Elements of a Winning Proposal for Bid

Crafting a winning bid proposal involves a few key elements, each contributing to the overall effectiveness and appeal of the document. These elements include:

Executive summary

Company profile

Customer testimonials

Scope of work

Project methodology

Project timeline

Budget overview

Incorporating these components ensures that your bid proposal is comprehensive, professional, and persuasive. Each element plays a specific role in showcasing your company’s capabilities and building trust with potential clients, ultimately increasing your chances of winning contracts.

Executive Summary

The executive summary is a brief overview of the entire bid proposal, designed to grab the client’s attention and highlight what sets your bid apart from the competition. This section should emphasize key points such as:

The scope of work

Methodology

Your company’s qualifications

Tailoring your executive summary to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the client’s specific pain points and challenges can make a significant impact. Doing so immediately conveys your capability and attentiveness to the client’s unique needs.

Company Profile

The company profile section allows you to demonstrate your company’s stability, reliability, and commitment to customer satisfaction. It provides valuable insight for potential clients and partners. Include basic information such as:

Company name

Phone number

Email address

Display your company profile, portfolio, and testimonials to demonstrate your competency and ability.

Highlighting your experience, expertise, skills, and client references further substantiates your qualifications. Detail the features, experience, and credentials that make your team the best choice for the project, showcasing your company’s expertise and how it aligns with the project’s needs.

Customer Testimonials

Customer testimonials are powerful tools that provide evidence of past successes, helping to build trust with potential clients. Highlight your unique selling proposition with testimonials or case studies that showcase your ability to deliver on promises and meet client expectations.

Including samples of products or a case study of services can further strengthen your business proposal.

Scope of Work

The scope of work section is crucial for defining the project’s boundaries, deliverables, and objectives. It should clearly list the specific tasks your company will perform and outline the services or products you will provide. This section helps set clear expectations and ensures that both parties are aligned on what the project entails.

Writing a successful bid proposal greatly depends on understanding the project scope. It is essential to have a thorough grasp of the scope before proceeding with the proposal. Reviewing the RFP, communicating with the client, conducting site visits, assessing potential challenges, and pricing based on the scope are all important steps in determining the scope of work and pricing for a bid proposal.

Project Methodology

The project methodology section outlines the approach, processes, tools, and techniques that will be used to manage the project effectively. This section differentiates your solution from the competition by showcasing distinct aspects such as pricing, feature benefits, or other offerings.

Providing a detailed methodology helps clients understand how you plan to achieve the project’s goals and ensures a smooth execution.

Project Timeline

A well-defined project timeline is essential for setting client expectations regarding the duration of a particular project. This section should include a tentative timeframe with the start and end dates for the project, as well as critical milestones and final deliverable deadlines. By presenting a realistic and achievable schedule, you demonstrate your ability to manage the project efficiently.

Including a project timeline in your bid proposal helps clients visualize the workflow and understand the sequence of tasks. It also provides a clear roadmap for both parties, ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding the project schedule.

Budget Overview

Transparency about pricing is a key decision-making factor for clients. The budget overview section should provide a clear and itemized breakdown of all costs involved, including labor, materials, and time. Providing accurate pricing not only prevents working at a loss but also entices more clients to engage with you.

Analyzing all costs involved, including a margin for potential risks, ensures competitive and reasonable pricing while considering the client’s budget and expectations. Providing an estimated cost breakdown for each task and deliverable helps clients understand the financial aspects of the project and builds trust in your proposal.

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions section covers legal aspects such as:

Payment terms, including the payment schedule

Confidentiality agreements

Contract length

Cancellation policies

This section allows you to set the rules for your services and outline your company’s policy on working on the project. The inclusion of these details safeguards both the bidder and the client while ensuring a mutual understanding of expectations.

The final step in a bid proposal is a formal statement of intent of services, accompanied by the client’s and contractor’s signatures. This formal agreement solidifies the commitment from both parties and provides a clear framework for the project’s execution.

Customizing Your Proposal for Bid

Customizing a bid proposal involves tailoring it to the specific needs and preferences of the client. This process includes researching the client, personalizing content, and using visuals and design to make the proposal more engaging and targeted. Grasping the client’s company, mission, and vision guides your approach and ensures your proposal resonates with the client. Showcasing your qualifications, past work, and success stories is crucial to capturing the attention of potential clients.

Highlighting your unique selling proposition and differentiating your bid proposal from competitors allows you to showcase why your solution is the optimal choice. Personalizing the bid proposal template for each client and using eye-catching design elements can significantly increase the chances of success.

Researching the Client

Researching the client, which involves understanding their needs, industry, and expectations, results in a more effective proposal. This involves reviewing the RFP, conducting site visits, communicating with the client, and researching the client’s industry and competitors. Writing a successful bid proposal requires a critical understanding of the client’s information. It is essential for tailoring the proposal to their specific needs and expectations.

Evaluating the client’s previous projects can provide valuable insights into their budget preferences and expectations. Clarifying vague bid requests through open communication ensures that you address all necessary details and avoid submitting an incomplete proposal. Failing to research the client can result in a generalized proposal that misses the client’s unique challenges.

Personalizing Content

Personalizing content involves tailoring the proposal to the client’s specific needs and challenges. Including the client’s name and contact information helps to personalize and direct the proposal. Adjusting the tone and language to align with the client’s communication style and corporate culture can make the proposal more relatable and engaging.

Adding personal touches such as team photos or organizational charts can build trust with the client. Personalization reinforces the brand’s image and makes the proposal a piece of brand communication, enhancing its overall impact.

Using Visuals and Design

Using visuals and design enhances readability and engagement, making the proposal more memorable and impactful. High-quality visuals and a professional layout can significantly improve the client’s interest and retention of information. Different types of proposal graphics include:

Infographics

Flow charts

Some tips for using graphics in your proposal:

Use infographics to summarize complex information or processes

Use flow charts to provide a visual map of workflows or hierarchies

Implement a consistent color scheme and branding elements to make the proposal appear more cohesive and polished

Position graphics strategically to aid understanding and enhance the proposal

By following these tips, you can effectively use graphics to enhance your proposal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Proposal for Bid

Common mistakes in bid proposals can significantly reduce your chances of winning contracts. Submitting incomplete proposals, overlooking client needs, and poor proofreading are some of the pitfalls to avoid. Ensuring that your proposal meets all requirements and is free of errors enhances its professionalism and effectiveness.

By understanding these common mistakes and how to avoid them, you can increase the quality of your bid proposals and improve your chances of success. Collaborating with your team and following a thorough review process are key strategies for producing high-quality proposals.

Incomplete Proposals

Incomplete proposals that fail to meet all sections and requirements can lead to immediate rejection. Failing to address all questions and requirements in the RFP can result in an incomplete proposal, as can not providing required certifications or missing notarizations.

For a successful bid proposal, all necessary information must be included and organized correctly.

Overlooking Client Needs

Focusing too much on promoting your company rather than addressing the client’s specific needs can make your proposal less compelling. Proposals that emphasize the vendor’s services rather than the client’s needs often fail to make an impact. Overloading the proposal with unnecessary information, instead of answering the RFP’s specific requirements, can be counterproductive.

Grasping and addressing the client’s unique challenges and pain points is crucial in crafting a compelling proposal. By focusing on the client’s needs and tailoring your proposal accordingly, you can create a more persuasive and effective bid.

Poor Proofreading

Errors and lack of clarity in a poorly proofread proposal can undermine its professionalism and effectiveness. Skipping the final review can result in missed grammatical errors and incorrect information, hurting your proposal’s credibility. It’s vital to ensure your proposal is flawless, clear, and well-expressed to make a good impression.

Having multiple people review the proposal can help catch errors that one person might miss. Establishing evaluation criteria and involving team members in the review process are effective strategies for producing high-quality proposals.

Steps to Submit a Proposal for Bid

It is important to carefully plan and pay attention to detail when submitting a bid proposal. This can improve the chances of success and make a good impression on potential clients. Here are some steps to follow:

Conduct a final review to ensure everything is polished and professional. This will help to catch any potential errors or areas for improvement before the submission.

Meticulously follow the client’s submission instructions to avoid disqualification.

Share the bid proposal directly through various channels such as email, PDF, or online platforms to accelerate the submission process.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of success when submitting a bid proposal.

Proactively following up after the client has viewed the proposal aids in addressing any questions or clarifications, thus enhancing your chances of winning the bid. Keeping the lines of communication open and demonstrating your commitment to the project can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Preparing the Document

Before sending a bid proposal, there are a few important steps to take:

Sign the bid proposal to show your commitment and give the client confidence in your bid.

Include the project title or job in the bid proposal to clearly specify what you are bidding on.

Conduct a final review of the bid proposal to ensure that all details are accurate and presented professionally.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of success with your bid proposal.

Careful planning and organization are key to preparing a successful bid proposal. By ensuring that all necessary information is included and properly formatted, you set a strong foundation for the submission process.

Submission Methods

Emailing bid proposals as electronic documents can accelerate the submission process. However, ignoring specific delivery instructions, such as physical mailing requirements, can make a proposal incomplete. Following the client’s preferred submission method is crucial for ensuring that your proposal is considered.

Follow-Up Strategies

Following up with the client after submitting the bid is crucial to address any questions or clarifications. Initiating follow-up communication helps keep the lines of communication open and allows you to address any concerns the client may have regarding your proposal.

This proactive approach can enhance your chances of winning future bids.

In summary, crafting a winning bid proposal involves understanding the project requirements, customizing the proposal to the client’s needs, and avoiding common mistakes. By including key elements such as an executive summary, company profile, customer testimonials, scope of work, project methodology, timeline, budget overview, and terms and conditions, you can create a comprehensive and compelling proposal.

Following a structured approach to submission and maintaining open communication with the client further increases your chances of success. By applying these strategies, you can enhance the quality of your bid proposals and secure more contracts in the competitive construction industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of an executive summary in a bid proposal.

The purpose of an executive summary in a bid proposal is to provide a brief overview of the entire proposal, highlighting key points to grab the client’s attention and set your bid apart from the competition.

How can I ensure my bid proposal is complete?

To ensure your bid proposal is complete, carefully address all questions and requirements in the RFP, include necessary certifications, and thoroughly review for any missing information.

Why is researching the client important for a bid proposal?

Researching the client is important for a bid proposal because it helps you understand their needs, industry, and expectations, leading to a more targeted and effective proposal.

What are the benefits of using visuals in a bid proposal?

Using high-quality visuals and a professional layout in a bid proposal enhances readability, engages the client’s interest, and makes the proposal more memorable and impactful. It can significantly improve the chances of winning the bid.

How should I follow up after submitting a bid proposal?

You should follow up with the client to address any questions or clarifications, keeping the lines of communication open and demonstrating your commitment to the project.

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How to master pricing strategy with CPQ

Anthony Esposito Senior Account Manager at PandaDoc

Reviewed by:

Keith Rabkin Chief Revenue Officer for PandaDoc

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What’s the first thing you look at when you’re torn between two comparable products?

Well, if you’re anything like me, it’s pricing. Also known as price skimming. Ok, not just me.

A 2022 survey reported that upwards of 80% of buyers 1 assess competitor prices before deciding to purchase.

As the business, your pricing strategy needs to be competitive and adaptable to shifting markets.

Fortunately, CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) is a tool that can process data and cut down on admin and guesswork to help you know your ideal price point.

Before we dig a little deeper into mastering your pricing strategy, let’s discuss what CPQ is and how it can help when it comes to setting prices.

What is CPQ?

Configure, Price, Quote software is a system that allows businesses to configure pricing products on a complex level, in addition to generating quotes.

Sales teams are able to easily peek at consumer data to adjust pricing as needed.

The automation features built into CPQ also significantly cut down on time spent in administrative tasks.

That way, stakeholders can focus on big picture items like pricing strategy and tactics.

HAAS Alert reported saving over 120 hours of admin work each month, which led to a 66.67% increase in efficiency by utilizing PandaDoc CPQ for HubSpot.

Bonus : We recently launched PandaDoc CPQ for HubSpot to help you improve the buying experience and streamline consistency with pricing.

Now you can create accurate quotes for complex products & services with ease. Learn more here .

Different pricing strategies

Pricing isn’t about blindly throwing a dart at a board and choosing whatever number you land on.

There’s a few common pricing strategies with intentional tactics behind them.

What best applies to your marketing strategy comes down to what you’re selling and your ideal customer .

Let’s go over some of the most common pricing models, along with their pros and cons.

What is the best pricing strategy for you?

Let’s go over some pricing strategy examples, as only you can decide on your pricing method of choice.

Cost-plus pricing

Cost-plus pricing model is as basic as it sounds. Take the cost of your product, and mark it up.

Pro: Easy, simple way to create pricing and margin profits.

Con: Not strategic. Doesn’t take into account competitor pricing or a customer’s willingness to pay (WTP).

This is particularly a disadvantage in the SaaS industry, where a value-based approach resonates best with targeted consumers when it comes to the bottom line.

Competitor-based pricing

Competitor-based pricing is, yep, you guessed it, pricing based on your competitors.

Whether it’s having a lower price to edge out the competition, or a higher price to convey perceived value, this competitive pricing strategy can be hit or miss.

Pro: Watching your competitors helps you stay within market range and adjust to changes as needed.

Con: If this is your sole focus, you risk losing sight of a value-based approach and may lose revenue and customers with too many fluctuations.

Value-based pricing

This one is a bit more ambiguous, but with the right data can be a highly effective approach.

Industries like SaaS are value-based, and need to position themselves as such to stand out from the crowd.

Also known as the premium pricing strategy. Ahem speaking of, you are reading a PandaDoc blog, did you know we offer a free 14-day trial?

Pro: Most effective for maximizing revenue with the WTP approach.

Con: Diligent research and a constant ear to the ground are required to stay on top of things and remain in-tune with consumer reviews.

Penetration pricing strategy

This strategy is often utilized by those moving fast. It’s the tactic of setting a low initial price to attract customers and get their foot in the bigger market with the intent to gradually raise prices later.

Pro: Helpful when coming into a saturated market, as consumers will be more likely to give you a try if your price is exceptionally lower than the competition.

When done right, this can be a highly effective pricing strategy.

Con: With high reward comes higher risk.

You could be losing long-term revenue and customers as pricing increases. Especially if done too often, and too quickly.

Dynamic pricing strategy

An effective strategy that utilizes real-time market trends and data from inventory levels and customer demand.

Pro: Flexible with a shifting market, giving businesses more leverage with profit margins.

Con: Too many price adjustments risks losing customers and having the business come off as lacking confidence in their value and positioning in the marketplace.

Mastering your pricing strategy

Alright, as promised, now comes the meat and potatoes part of the blog.

You may be sitting here nodding, scrolling, ready to sink your teeth into how to utilize your (new) knowledge of CPQ and pricing models to your advantage.

Here’s what you need to ask yourself when crafting your perfect price:

Value & Market Position:

• While lower pricing may be effective initially, it can also be associated with a cheaper product. How do you plan to market your value to consumers? Also known as, value-based pricing.

Business Goals:

• Which matters more to you right now, market share or long-term value?
• Are you aiming to be cost-based, or going off the value of your product?
• Depending on your product, have you factored in the cost of production, and consumer demand?

Customer Perception:

• How do you plan to clearly communicate price fluctuations to your customers?
• What are the pain points customers currently have in your industry, and how can you best solve for their needs to promote customer value?

Competitors:

• Who are your biggest competitors? Look for 3-5, depending on your industry.
• What are their prices, and how do they vary?
• Are your services/products comparable, or do you have specifics they may not?
• Based on market research, do they offer freemium pricing or bundle pricing options, and will you?

On the flip side, it’s equally important to understand what makes a weak pricing strategy.

Poor targeting:

• Not marketing correctly, reaching the wrong customers and losing out on the right ones.
• A high price with too much markup for the customer base.

Incorrect value portrayal

• Exaggerating what the consumer will get with their purchase, pricing too low for a high-value product, etc.

Not finding the sweet spot:

• Prices too high or too low compared to similar products will cause potential buyers to hesitate.
• Sales volume and price-sensitivity aren’t factored into decision making.

Pricing strategy case studies

If you’re overwhelmed narrowing down the best selling price, we’ve got you.

Sometimes it helps to look at historical data of companies who have been there, done that, and reported back on the trial-and-error of pricing strategies for you.

Disney+ and penetration pricing

Back in 2019, Disney+ was far from the first big studio to launch a streaming platform.

In fact, many considered them late to the game.

While Disney is a major household name, Netflix and Hulu dominated the market.

So, what did Disney do?

They adopted the penetration pricing model 2 to break into market shares and get traction by starting out with a fiercely-competitive low price of only $6.99 a month.

This business model positioned them to be the option with economy pricing for new customers, while still having a high-quality product.

This strategy worked well for Disney+, who steadily increased their prices after accumulating a large customer base of monthly subscribers.

Part of the effect was positioning their value with more original content, such as The Mandalorian , and making access to all Marvel (a Disney company) and Disney content exclusive to their platform.

Canva and value-based pricing

The go-to graphic design site for non-graphic designers has moved through a few iterations since coming onto the scene in 2012.

In 2019, Canva had a flat-rate pricing model for a monthly subscription of $12.95 in addition to keeping their free basic plan.

Now, there’s also Canva for Teams at $14.99 monthly for 5 seats.

Canva took the slow and steady approach 3 , letting customers discover and try them out before ever asking for money.

As word spread and use increased, they launched their first monthly subscription plan, backed by the added-value of new and improved features.

If someone didn’t need that, they could simply keep their free version.

Another few years later, they added a third-tier value package for companies for a very small amount more, making the incentive to purchase the package rather than 5 individual Pro accounts. At present, Canva has over half a million team subscriptions. Some are from large corporations, such as Zoom and Marriott.

Near the end of 2023, their customer subscriptions surpassed $2 billion 4 .

In their case, the slow and steady value-based pricing model was highly successful.

CPQ and dynamic pricing

Enterprise companies in fields such as Saas benefit highly from CPQ when deciding their pricing model.

CPQ’s ability to simplify complex products and integrate with CRM and ERP systems allows it to tailor solutions and provide accurate pricing for higher profitability.

CPQ and pricing tools

CPQ’s ability to provide data-driven pricing gives its users a competitive edge.

Sales processes are streamlined, time is saved, pricing configuration can be automated, and tailored. Need we say more?

According to a Forbes article, sales teams spend an estimated low of 35% of their time actually selling.

Quickening the sales cycle is one of the key benefits of implementing CPQ software.

Depending on your needs, and if you already have a CRM in place, there are a few options when it comes to choosing a CPQ software that’s right for you.

We’ve done the research so you don’t have to.

By taking a look at the above blog you can see some of the highlights of the most commonly used CPQ software, and how PandaDoc stacks up against the competition.

PandaDoc CPQ is competitive in the landscape by streamlining your tools.

You can easily connect them so you don’t have to switch between programs, while ensuring all relevant teams have transparency and access for quick and easy alignment.

“ CPQ has transformed our quoting process. Our quoting is not only more efficient but also much more attractive, offering an Amazon-esque experience to our customers. It has significantly streamlined our operations and enables reps to generate proposals in real time .” Mike McCormick, Director of Employee Education

PandaDoc CPQ includes:

• CRM integrations for easy set-up
• Pricing rules
• Drag-and-drop editor
• Approval workflows
• Step-by-step selling
• Embedding trusted payment options to make closing easy

PandaDoc CPQ allows your team to easily managed all parts of the sales process.

Deciding on your pricing strategy is a crucial part of any businesses success.

Reaching your target audience and standing out to potential customers works when you have the right price for your product.

Said another way—your value proposition.

No matter what method you go with, remember, it’s a competitive market.

Market conditions fluctuate, and the right pricing strategy for you will with it. If it doesn’t work out, try another. Better, have CPQ do it for you.

Get a demo of PandaDoc CPQ For HubSpot and see how it can help your team interpret data and maximize revenue with pricing strategies.

• Statista, Share of global shoppers who usually compare prices before buying online as of August 2022 Show in the article ↑
• Marshall Johnston, Pricing Disney+ Show in the article ↑
• Top Lyne, 11 Examples of SaaS Pricing Done Right Show in the article ↑
• Famewall, Canva Usage, Revenue & Growth Statistics (in 2024) Show in the article ↑

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In a new video update, our President and CEO Brian Moore and Board Chair Troy Cribbins discuss next steps in Bay Area Hospital’s partnership exploration. The board is committed to being transparent throughout the process and finding the best path forward for the health and well-being of our community. Watch the video here.

Bay Area Hospital We’re Here for Good.

For 50 years, Bay Area Hospital has been the epicenter of healthcare and is now the largest employer on Oregon’s Southern Coast. Our history is built on perseverance as we have consistently grown and evolved in response to our community’s needs. We’re committed to continuing that legacy for another five decades. We’re here for good. To do so, we have engaged national industry experts to help explore and evaluate opportunities to ensure the hospital’s future. As part of the process, we will consider partnering with or becoming part of a larger healthcare system that can invest in our services and our people for generations to come.

The process will likely continue through March 2025, and we will keep you updated every step of the way. In the meantime, we remain committed to providing the high-quality, compassionate care our community expects. For continued updates check this page or follow us on Facebook. The right care is right here, for the last 50 years and for 50 more.

Hear from President and CEO, Brian Moore and Hospital District Board Chairman, Troy Cribbins

Ongoing News

10.23.2024 – evaluating proposals from potential partners.

Following a careful and thorough review, the Bay Area Hospital District Board of Directors selected finalists at the September 10 board meeting from proposals submitted by potential partners. Our board of directors is now evaluating these options to determine how or if they are a good fit.

How will proposals be evaluated?

First, we have conducted extensive community and internal team member surveys, the results of which have provided us top potential partnership priorities – continuation of high-quality services, job security, local management and financial stability. Secondly, we identified a set of important criteria to help guide our evaluations. This will ensure all critical factors are considered and provide a framework to compare potential partners. The criteria includes:

Community Health Care Implications

• How will the partnership impact medical quality and the breadth of services offered?
• Will the partner be effective in recruiting and retaining physicians?
• Can they deliver cost-effective care?

Partner Characteristics

• Does the potential partner have the size and scale needed to thrive in today’s health care environment?
• What is their management expertise, particularly in using technology, data and standardizing best practices?

Commercial Strength

• What is the financial stability of the potential partner?
• Can they effectively manage the transaction process?

Operating and Financial Statistics

• How many facilities do they operate, and what is their geographic reach?
• What are their financial metrics, such as net patient revenues and capital spending ratios?

Transaction Features

• How will the partnership affect our employees and medical staff?
• Will current services be continued or expanded?

Subjective Criteria

• Does the potential partner share our culture and mission?
• Is there a strategic fit between our hospital and the potential partner?
• What kind of operating support and management expertise do they offer?

No final decisions have been made, and the board can still decide to remain independent at any time. The board has simply chosen to continue evaluating the best options available to us. We’re committed to transparency and will keep the community informed throughout this process. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to evaluate the best path forward for Bay Area Hospital.

We’re Making Progress: -Recap of September 10, 2024 Board of Directors Meeting

Following a careful and thorough review, the Bay Area Hospital District Board of Directors has selected finalists from proposals submitted as part of our partnership exploration process. No final decisions have been made, and the board can still decide to remain independent at any time. The board has simply chosen to continue evaluating the best options available to us.

Due to confidentiality agreements, we are not able to disclose the names of finalists at this time. We are committed to sharing more details as soon as we can, and we will continue to keep the community informed at each stage of the process. In the coming weeks, the selected finalists will visit Bay Area Hospital, and then our leadership team and board will conduct site visits to their facilities. We are focused on finding the best path forward for our hospital and for the health and well-being of the South Coast community.

Survey Results: What Our Community Values Most

We recently conducted a survey to gather feedback on a potential partnership for Bay Area Hospital. The results are in, and we had almost 800 responses from community members, staff and physicians. Thank you to everyone who participated! We take your feedback seriously and the following are key takeaways from the survey.

• Top priorities: improving quality and providing safe care, expanding clinical services and keeping care local, recruiting and retaining staff and providers, and ensuring financial sustainability.
• Perceived benefits: ensuring financial sustainability; growing service lines and improving access to care; and improving operations, technology or culture.
• Main concerns: eliminating jobs, losing local control and becoming too profit focused.

Many respondents indicated they saw no benefit in a potential partnership. However, 64% indicated they did not want to stay independent if it meant a reduction in services. We have some important decision to make in the next few weeks and truly value this type of feedback. The survey results were presented to the Bay Area Hospital District Board of Directors at their Aug. 20, 2024, meeting. The board will make the ultimate decision on whether to remain independent or join a larger health system in the coming months. Currently, our outside experts are helping us gather information from interested potential partners. Next steps will include reviewing proposals and carefully weighing what each potential partner offers against our needs and priorities. If the hospital board decides to move forward, they will continue their thorough evaluation, which includes site visits to our facility and to potential partners’ facilities. As we continue to explore options, your priorities and concerns will be central to the decision-making process. Thank you for your continued support and for helping us shape the future of Bay Area Hospital.

Recap of Public Input Session at July 9, 2024 Board of Directors Meeting

To our Coos County community:

Thank you for giving us your time, attention, and valuable perspectives this week as we discussed our hospital’s future. As part of the Bay Area Hospital District’s monthly Board of Directors’ meeting July 9, we hosted a public session to hear from community members about potentially partnering with or becoming part of a larger health care system.

We heard from many of you and appreciate the candid feedback. Here’s what we heard expressed most consistently:

• Our hospital has served Coos County well for many years, but community members are concerned a potential change could impact services, workforce opportunities and economic development.
• Our folks want more information and for information to be distributed more broadly.
• There is a desire for our Board and leadership team to consider potential partners that strongly align with our mission and values and emphasize community and patient wellbeing.
• We understand individuals wish to establish or continue avenues for local community input and decision-making, seeking to reflect in any potential partnership some aspects of the hospital district governance we have today.
• No matter what decision is made, do not sacrifice quality for profitability.
• The federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program for student loans is essential to our workforce, and there is a desire that any potential partnership maintain worker eligibility.

We also heard from many session participants about other concerns or challenges, for example our electronic health record system, cost saving measures, board governance and workforce issues, to name a few. These are all complicated and interwoven aspects of our hospital’s journey to a more stable future, and we are working hard to address them while keeping our community’s values and that of our hospital front and center.

The feedback gathered this week is important and valid – recommendations we will return to often as we continue our exploration process and build a framework by which any potential partner is assessed.

Let me assure you, no decisions have been made at this time.

One thing is certain: your voices are crucial in shaping the future of our hospital. We are committed to keeping the community informed and involved every step of the way. We remain dedicated to our employees and the health of the community now and well into the future. We’re here for good.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement.

Please check this dedicated web page for more and continually updated information at  www.bayareahospital.org/hereforgood .

Troy Cribbins Board Chairman Bay Area Hospital District Board of Directors

Brian Moore President and CEO Bay Area Hospital


Media Release –  BAH Exploring Strategic Options for Long-term Sustainability 

MYTHS VS. FACTS

We’re kicking off our “myths vs. facts” series to inform you about bay area hospital’s partnership exploration process. we’ll tackle a new myth each week and provide the facts you need to stay informed., 09/04/2024 – week 1  , myth: our hospital doesn’t need a partner.   .

FACT : In today’s health care landscape, independent community hospitals face significant challenges. Rising costs, decreasing insurance reimbursements and the ongoing impact of the pandemic have stretched resources thin. A partnership with a larger health system can often bring significant benefits, like increasing financial stability, investing in advanced technology, maintaining or expanding services, and attracting medical staff. Additionally, the typical hospital considering affiliation today is already nearly three times larger than Bay Area Hospital. 

09/12/2024 – WEEK 2

Myth: patient care will suffer if we join a larger system..

FACT: Improving and maintaining high-quality, safe care is a top priority in any partnership exploration. Studies have shown a correlation between higher clinical quality scores and hospitals affiliated with larger health systems. Health systems often have more resources to support clinical quality reporting by hospitals. Bay Area Hospital is also evaluating potential partners for their skills and resources to improve quality by strengthening employee recruitment and retention, recruiting and retaining physicians and other providers, and investing in equipment and technology that can support state-of-the-art delivery of healthcare in our community. 

09/19/2024 – WEEK 3

Myth: hospital board members will somehow benefit financially from a potential partnership.   .

FACT: The Bay Area Hospital District Board of Directors selflessly volunteer more than 120 hours of their time and expertise each year without financial compensation to serve the hospital and community. They would not receive any personal or financial gain from potential affiliations with other hospitals or a health system. Their sole focus is to ensure the hospital’s success and make decisions that benefit patients, physicians, staff, and the community. 

09/25/2024 – WEEK 4

Myth: a partnership will lead to job losses..

FACT: Employee well-being, job security and workplace culture are top considerations in any future decisions. In some cases, partnerships could present more opportunities for professional growth and development for staff. Studies have also shown 80% of hospitals that joined a larger health system were able to measure an increase in employee satisfaction after an affiliation. The Bay Area Hospital District Board of Directors has stated their intent and goal is to only select a partner who share our values and prioritizes team members.

10/3/2024 – WEEK 5

Myth: the hospital can get tax dollars to help with finances..

FACT: The hospital receives no tax dollars and there has not been a levy since 1989. In fact, the Bay Area Hospital District is the only health district in Oregon to not currently receive any county property tax funds. If the hospital were to request a levy, the process requires approval from voters, is not a guaranteed solution and new financial data indicates the levy would not be enough. We’ve had a 0% tax rate since the early ‘90s when legislation permanently closed that window. There are also strict limits on the amount that can be collected from the tax a levy. The levy is capped and even if the public voted in favor, the amount would not be sufficient to ensure the long-term sustainability of the hospital.

10/10/2024 – WEEK 6

Myth: bay area hospital has already decided to join a larger health system..

FACT: No decisions have been made by the Bay Area Hospital District Board of Directors. We do not yet know what this will look like or if it will even happen. This is a months-long process, and we are evaluating a range of options, including potential partnerships, affiliations, long-term leases, joint ventures, or a merger.

10/17/2024 – WEEK 7

Myth: we can maintain the same level and number of services in the future..

FACT: Despite successes in our financial turnaround, there are many factors out of our control. Without a partner, it’s unlikely we’ll be able to maintain all our current services in the long run. The pandemic has had a lasting impact through service disruptions, high cost of temporary labor, increased operational and supply expenses, and falling insurance reimbursements. These factors have continued to negatively impact the financial performance of hospitals around the country and Bay Area Hospital is no exception.

10/24/2024 – WEEK 8 

Myth: that profits will be more important than patient care..

FACT: No, our patients come first. For more than five decades, Bay Area Hospital has cared for the health and well-being of the South Coast community. That has been and always will be our main priority. Financial stability is important in that it allows us to provide our community with the best possible care, close to home. The primary goal of any possible partnership is to ensure our hospital continues to operate for the benefit and health of the community for another 50 years and beyond.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why is the hospital doing this now.

The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and planning ahead is key to surviving and growing for the community you serve. Forming strategic partnerships or affiliations with larger health care organizations can offer independent community hospitals opportunities to access resources, expertise and economies of scale while preserving their local identity.

What will an affiliation or partnership look like?

It is still very early in the exploration process, and we do not yet know what this will look like or if it will happen. At this stage, we plan to evaluate a range of options, including potential partnerships, affiliations, joint ventures, long-term lease agreements or a merger. We have also reserved the right to remain an independent hospital should we find no options that best support our hospital and the needs of our community. This is a months-long process, and no decisions have been made at this time.

Who are the organizations you are approaching to discuss potential partnerships?

We understand the desire for details and will do our best along the way to share as much information as we can. However, because our process could involve a potential business transaction, other parties may request confidentiality, or the nature of the discussions may simply require it.

Who will make the final decisions about partnership opportunities?

The Bay Area Hospital District Board of Directors will have to vote on and approve any changes. However, we are fully committed to a transparent process, and understanding input from our community – clinical leaders, frontline caregivers and support teams to patients, elected officials and business owners – is also of utmost importance.

How will this impact jobs at the hospital?

We are not making any staffing changes as part of the exploration process. Our physicians, nurses, frontline caregivers and support teams are the lifeblood of Bay Area Hospital. Nothing is changing now, and any decisions impacting the future of our hospital will be to enhance and build on the strong foundation we’ve established.

More Questions?

We want your feedback. Submit your questions below and check back for regular updates. Send questions to  [email protected]  

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