Week
1
2
3
Project End
Date
Jan 1 – Jan 7
Jan 8 – Jan 14
Jan 15 – Jan 21
Phase 1
Planning
Phase 2
Research
Phase 3
Analysis
For example, your money allocation table can look like this:
|
|
---|---|
Items required for research | X amount of dollars |
Permissions | X amount of dollars |
To pay survey respondents | X amount of dollars |
Add in additional details | X amount of dollars |
Add in additional details | X amount of dollars |
|
|
The reference list should always begin on a new page. Depending on your subject, there will probably be a specific format and referencing pattern for written work (Chicago, Harvard, MLA, Social Sciences) . Before you start writing, make sure you know what the convention for your subject area is, learn it and stick to it. There are a wide variety of different referencing conventions so it is important to make sure you find the correct one and stay consistent.
This will make doing your research proposal (and future research) a lot easier. Depending on your subject, your referencing may involve in-text citations or footnotes. Either way, your proposal will need a full reference list or bibliography at the end, including all of the secondary works you have mentioned in your literature review and primary sources (if applicable) .
You do not, however, need to include work that you have read in preparation but not used or mentioned in your work. Make sure this is correctly formatted — plenty of style guides for each referencing style are available online. Also, remember to lay out your reference list in alphabetical order by the authors’ surnames.
[Researcher.FirstName] [Researcher.LastName]
Care to rate this template?
Your rating will help others.
Thanks for your rate!
To make a comprehensive research proposal, make sure you answer all the questions your review committee might have, such as who is your sample audience, what kind of questions you plan to ask them, why you are conducting this research, what you think will come out of it, etc. Leave no room for assumptions. Alternatively, you can also use this template to best understand which nitty-gritty details to cover.
Published by Alaxendra Bets at August 14th, 2021 , Revised On June 24, 2024
A research design is a structure that combines different components of research. It involves the use of different data collection and data analysis techniques logically to answer the research questions .
It would be best to make some decisions about addressing the research questions adequately before starting the research process, which is achieved with the help of the research design.
Below are the key aspects of the decision-making process:
The research design provides the strategy of investigation for your project. Furthermore, it defines the parameters and criteria to compile the data to evaluate results and conclude.
Your project’s validity depends on the data collection and interpretation techniques. A strong research design reflects a strong dissertation , scientific paper, or research proposal .
Before conducting any research study, you must address an important question: “how to create a research design.”
The research design depends on the researcher’s priorities and choices because every research has different priorities. For a complex research study involving multiple methods, you may choose to have more than one research design.
Multimethodology or multimethod research includes using more than one data collection method or research in a research study or set of related studies.
If one research design is weak in one area, then another research design can cover that weakness. For instance, a dissertation analyzing different situations or cases will have more than one research design.
For example:
While scientific considerations are a fundamental aspect of the research design, It is equally important that the researcher think practically before deciding on its structure. Here are some questions that you should think of;
If you think that the chosen research design cannot answer the research questions properly, you can refine your research questions to gain better insight.
Decide on the type of data you need for your research. The type of data you need to collect depends on your research questions or research hypothesis. Two types of research data can be used to answer the research questions:
The researcher collects the primary data from first-hand sources with the help of different data collection methods such as interviews, experiments, surveys, etc. Primary research data is considered far more authentic and relevant, but it involves additional cost and time. | |
Research on academic references which themselves incorporate primary data will be regarded as secondary data. There is no need to do a survey or interview with a person directly, and it is time effective. The researcher should focus on the validity and reliability of the source. |
This type of data encircles the researcher’s descriptive experience and shows the relationship between the observation and collected data. It involves interpretation and conceptual understanding of the research. There are many theories involved which can approve or disapprove the mathematical and statistical calculation. For instance, you are searching how to write a research design proposal. It means you require qualitative data about the mentioned topic. | |
If your research requires statistical and mathematical approaches for measuring the variable and testing your hypothesis, your objective is to compile quantitative data. Many businesses and researchers use this type of data with pre-determined data collection methods and variables for their research design. |
Also, see; Research methods, design, and analysis .
Once you have selected the type of research to answer your research question, you need to decide where and how to collect the data.
It is time to determine your research method to address the research problem . Research methods involve procedures, techniques, materials, and tools used for the study.
For instance, a dissertation research design includes the different resources and data collection techniques and helps establish your dissertation’s structure .
The following table shows the characteristics of the most popularly employed research methods.
Research Methods
Methods | What to consider |
---|---|
Surveys | The survey planning requires; Selection of responses and how many responses are required for the research? Survey distribution techniques (online, by post, in person, etc.) Techniques to design the question |
Interviews | Criteria to select the interviewee. Time and location of the interview. Type of interviews; i.e., structured, semi-structured, or unstructured |
Experiments | Place of the experiment; laboratory or in the field. Measuring of the variables Design of the experiment |
Secondary Data | Criteria to select the references and source for the data. The reliability of the references. The technique used for compiling the data source. |
Use of the correct data and statistical analysis technique is necessary for the validity of your research. Therefore, you need to be certain about the data type that would best address the research problem. Choosing an appropriate analysis method is the final step for the research design. It can be split into two main categories;
The quantitative data analysis technique involves analyzing the numerical data with the help of different applications such as; SPSS, STATA, Excel, origin lab, etc.
This data analysis strategy tests different variables such as spectrum, frequencies, averages, and more. The research question and the hypothesis must be established to identify the variables for testing.
Qualitative data analysis of figures, themes, and words allows for flexibility and the researcher’s subjective opinions. This means that the researcher’s primary focus will be interpreting patterns, tendencies, and accounts and understanding the implications and social framework.
You should be clear about your research objectives before starting to analyze the data. For example, you should ask yourself whether you need to explain respondents’ experiences and insights or do you also need to evaluate their responses with reference to a certain social framework.
The research design is an important component of a research proposal because it plans the project’s execution. You can share it with the supervisor, who would evaluate the feasibility and capacity of the results and conclusion .
Read our guidelines to write a research proposal if you have already formulated your research design. The research proposal is written in the future tense because you are writing your proposal before conducting research.
The research methodology or research design, on the other hand, is generally written in the past tense.
A research design is the plan, structure, strategy of investigation conceived to answer the research question and test the hypothesis. The dissertation research design can be classified based on the type of data and the type of analysis.
Above mentioned five steps are the answer to how to write a research design. So, follow these steps to formulate the perfect research design for your dissertation .
ResearchProspect writers have years of experience creating research designs that align with the dissertation’s aim and objectives. If you are struggling with your dissertation methodology chapter, you might want to look at our dissertation part-writing service.
Our dissertation writers can also help you with the full dissertation paper . No matter how urgent or complex your need may be, ResearchProspect can help. We also offer PhD level research paper writing services.
What is research design.
Research design is a systematic plan that guides the research process, outlining the methodology and procedures for collecting and analysing data. It determines the structure of the study, ensuring the research question is answered effectively, reliably, and validly. It serves as the blueprint for the entire research project.
To write a research design, define your research question, identify the research method (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed), choose data collection techniques (e.g., surveys, interviews), determine the sample size and sampling method, outline data analysis procedures, and highlight potential limitations and ethical considerations for the study.
In the design section of a research paper, describe the research methodology chosen and justify its selection. Outline the data collection methods, participants or samples, instruments used, and procedures followed. Detail any experimental controls, if applicable. Ensure clarity and precision to enable replication of the study by other researchers.
To write a research design in methodology, clearly outline the research strategy (e.g., experimental, survey, case study). Describe the sampling technique, participants, and data collection methods. Detail the procedures for data collection and analysis. Justify choices by linking them to research objectives, addressing reliability and validity.
Struggling to find relevant and up-to-date topics for your dissertation? Here is all you need to know if unsure about how to choose dissertation topic.
Repository of ten perfect research question examples will provide you a better perspective about how to create research questions.
How to write a hypothesis for dissertation,? A hypothesis is a statement that can be tested with the help of experimental or theoretical research.
USEFUL LINKS
LEARNING RESOURCES
COMPANY DETAILS
Written by: Idorenyin Uko
Beyond serving as a blueprint for the entire study, it lays the groundwork for a smooth and efficient research process.
Research proposals detail what you’ll cover in a larger research project. Whether you're a graduate student or a seasoned professor seeking to expand your current project, you’re going to need one to secure approvals from relevant committees and request funding for the project.
With a solid proposal in place, your research project can proceed with confidence, clarity and focus.
However, writing a research proposal is daunting and can overwhelm even the most seasoned researchers. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share expert research proposal templates to spotlight your project.
We'll also share tips and best practices to help you create a proposal that will impress reviewers and secure funding for your project.
Let’s get to it.
What should a research proposal include, research proposal examples, how to create a research proposal with visme, best practices when writing a research proposal.
First of all, what is a research proposal? A research proposal is a structured document that outlines the plan and rationale for a research project. It is typically submitted to gain approval and funding for conducting the research.
The specific requirements might vary depending on the institution, field of study and purpose of the research.
However, a comprehensive research proposal generally includes the following components:
Made with Visme Infographic Maker
The title page is the first thing readers see when they open your research proposal. It should contain the following details:
If an external organization is sponsoring your research, provide client or funder details.
When crafting the title of your research proposal, keep it concise yet informative. Also, make sure it accurately reflects the focus of your research project.
If your proposal is lengthy, consider adding an abstract and table of contents.
A table of contents provides readers (such as reviewers, advisors, or funding committee members) with an organized overview of the proposal's structure. They can easily navigate and find specific information without flipping through the entire document.
The introduction is a critical part of your research proposal. It sets the tone for the rest of the document and provides a framework for understanding the research. Make sure it piques your audience's interest and briefly explains what you want to achieve and why.
Here are some details you should include in your introduction:
When building your introduction, here are some ideas or questions to guide your thoughts:
The literature is where you demonstrate your understanding of the existing knowledge in the field. In addition, a well-written literature review achieves these things:
To write a compelling literature review, conducting thorough research beyond a narrow focus on just a few studies is essential. Instead, aim to investigate a broad range of theories, methods and debates within your field.
Not only will this help you identify the similarities and differences between various approaches, but it will also enable you to critically evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. You'll also be able to demonstrate how your own research builds upon, challenges, or synthesizes prior studies.
This approach will enrich your understanding of the subject matter and lend credibility and depth to your review. To provide a comprehensive overview of the subject matter, tap into different information sources, such as:
The research methodology is the backbone of any research project. Whether you’re preparing a research proposal or research presentation , it not only shapes the entire research process but also determines the quality, reliability and credibility of the study's outcomes.
The section should outline the specific methods and practical steps you plan to use to conduct your research. Describe the overall approach, including the research design, methods, data collection and analysis techniques and procedures for data interpretation.
Specifically, this section should capture these details:
This section should explain how your research addresses the identified gap and its potential contributions and impact on the field of study, policy or society.
To make a compelling case for your research, identify practical applications and policy implications of your study. Also, describe how your research will advance knowledge or understanding in the field.
For example, your research has the potential to make a significant impact in various ways, such as:
List all the sources cited in your research proposal. Your references must be formatted according to the appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, or Chicago). In the reference list, make sure to include a mix of primary and secondary sources and recent and classic works.
Properly reference your sources to avoid plagiarism and credit the original authors. This will show your commitment to academic integrity and ensure that your research is built on a solid foundation of existing knowledge.
When writing your research proposal, provide a detailed timeline for completing each stage of the research process. Create a table with activities on one side and estimated completion dates on the other. Allow for flexibility in case unexpected issues arise during the research process.
Here’s an example of a research schedule:
When applying for research funding, a detailed budget is typically required. This document outlines your estimated costs and resources needed to complete each aspect of your project,
Before drafting your budget, verify the types of expenses that the funding body will cover. Then, for each item, include the following information:
To determine your budget, consider the following categories:
Remember to include contingencies and unexpected expenses that may arise during the research process.
Attach any additional materials that support your proposal, such as survey questionnaires, informed consent forms, or supplementary information.
The appendices should be well organized, labeled and easy to navigate. Make sure to only include supplementary materials or documents that:
Wondering what great research proposals look like. Here are a few research proposal examples and templates to help you start on the right foot.
Are you tired of boring research proposals that put your audience to sleep? Look no further! This research proposal sample is just what you need to create a presentation that stands out from the crowd. Not only does our template feature a stylish blend of blue and white color themes, but it also incorporates eye-catching red bars in each slide to grab your audience's attention.
The subtle background images add a touch of elegance. The circular images and icons drive visual interest, while the table helps you visualize the proposed research timeline easily.
But that's not all—the template is also fully customizable, so you can easily tailor it to fit your specific research project.
You can edit content, swap image(s), apply custom colors, use your own fonts and logo and more. Plus, it's easy to follow and navigate, ensuring your audience stays engaged and interested throughout your presentation.
And don't forget about the content! Our template includes sections to help you articulate your research background, questions, objectives, literature review, methods and plan in a concise manner.
Unlock the door to funding success with our cutting-edge research proposal template. This template features a bold and modern design with vibrant colors, compelling images, and dynamic graphics.
With a professional layout and engaging visual elements, this template is the perfect tool to help you showcase your ideas and make a lasting impression on funding agencies.
Feel free to change colors or fonts and stand out from the crowd. Take advantage of customizable charts and widgets to help you visualize key data. Download this template and increase your chances of securing the grants you need to drive your research forward.
RELATED: 9 Winning Grant Proposal Templates & How to Write One
Get ready to take your research to the next level with the help of our innovative one-page proposal template.
This template distills your ideas into a concise summary. But despite its brevity, this template captures the essence of a research project, conveying the key elements in a concise and compelling way.
Another key feature of this template is its clean and elegant layout. The structure is organized into clear and logical sections, each building on the previous one to create a coherent narrative.
These visuals are well-designed and easy to interpret. But you can spice it up further with Visme's interactive elements . You have the option of adding hover effects or pop-ups to reveal additional information. Or just add hotspots that link to the full research proposal, website or landing page
Whether you're a seasoned researcher or just starting out, this template will inspire your proposals and help you secure funding for your next research project.
Confidently present your request for research funding focused on sales-based topics or survey proposals by using this research proposal template.
Its minimalist layout with monochromatic tones allows you to eloquently lay out background information, objectives, methodology, budget, as well as the expected impact, key performance indicators (KPIs), and your research expectations.
You can also change the color palette of the template to a much brighter tone or to match your brand colors with ease. Visme provides a wide range of color palette options you can instantly change your template to or allow you to customize manually.
In addition to customizing it to your brand, you can also add dynamic fields. Dynamic fields enable you to instantly update information, data, dates, and more across multiple projects with just one click. You can use dynamic fields for your company details, results, or modify the proposal's recipient should you plan on sending multiple proposals to prospective funders or clients.
Maybe you're looking for a template that comes with a striking design, one that is sure to create a great first impression with your potential sponsors. This general funding research proposal aligns with all these requirements.
This contemporary design features a soft pink color scheme with black accents and fonts, complemented by warm and brown-toned images. It also incorporates ample empty space, ensuring a clutter-free and straightforward layout to enhance readability while directing the reader's attention to key aspects of the provided text.
This template is not only customizable but can also be effortlessly adapted for any topic, regardless of the type of research request you have in mind. Edit, add, or remove pages as needed until you have completed your research proposal to complete satisfaction.
As a product manager or expert, you want to ensure that your product research is positioned in a way that stands out against the competition. Here's a product research proposal template that not only neatly packages your request but also leverages the power of storytelling and dynamic graphics and designs to persuade readers to support your proposal.
This template is designed with black tones and fun accents of yellow and white. Each element is balanced to provide a futuristic yet vibrant look and feel.
The pages feature tech-forward and focused layouts, enabling you to present key objectives, use structured flowcharts or diagrams to illustrate your methodology, and include a timeline tree that outlines the entire execution process from start to finish.
Most people are visual learners and are more likely to remember your proposals and their content through the visuals you use. If you’re looking for a proposal that smartly uses visuals to make your content more memorable, then this tech research proposal template takes a brilliant approach to balancing text and the heavy use of imagery.
The theme features strong tones of purple, complemented by white and yellow accents. Each page is presented with beautiful visuals that match the content presented. It is also accompanied by simple icons, charts, and graphs that align with the overall theme.
You can easily replace the current images by uploading your own. Maybe the images you have look great but need a bit of editing. Use Visme's AI Touch-Up Tools to quickly unblur, sharpen, remove backgrounds, or erase and replace items until your image is perfect and ready to be used in your template.
For marketers who need a tech-focused design approach to impress potential clients and attract sponsors for funding, this template is tailor-made for you. It was designed with marketers in mind, offering sections for the scope of work, budget overview, research timeline. It includes placeholders for you to add your website, company logo, or brand colors.
Visme allows you to elevate your presentation game, whether you're presenting your research proposal in person or virtually. With Visme, you can:
This environmental research proposal template is an excellent choice for nonprofits and environmentalists who want to create effective proposals without resorting to overused, boring, or rigid designs.
The template features a white background with green tones and imagery. Its composition is separate, spacious, and filled with clean empty spaces, making it easy to read. It also conveys a calm and peaceful tone that complements any environmental or non-profit topic you intend to use it for.
If you're working on this environmental research proposal with a team, utilize Visme's Workflow feature . This feature helps you eliminate endless email chains and Slack messages, allowing you to manage roles, tasks, progress, and deadlines all in one place. You can set deadlines, add and reply to comments, and even work on your proposal simultaneously without conflicts.
If you are a professional in the medical field seeking to craft a research proposal for approval, this template offers a compelling design layout tailored to the aesthetics of your industry. It has been meticulously designed with a minimalist approach, enabling you to present your request in a polished layout while incorporating vivid and stunning imagery.
Not to mention, for any section of your research proposal where you need to showcase previous data or results, you can seamlessly import your data from sources such as Google Sheets, Excel, or other tools directly into your charts and graphs.
Watch the video below to see how the feature works.
Once your data sources are linked, your charts and graphs will automatically update to reflect any changes made in the external data sources, ensuring that your information remains organized and up-to-date. This functionality enhances the professional presentation of your research proposal while streamlining data management.
A research proposal doesn’t have to be a long, boring document.
With the wide variety of features and templates available in Visme, you can whip up a visually appealing and professional-looking research proposal.
Here’s how to write a research proposal using Visme.
Sign up for a new Visme account or log into your account (if you’re an existing user). Fill in your login details in the form and you’ll be redirected to the dashboard.
Either way, you'll be able to start exploring all the amazing features and tools that Visme has to offer!
The next step is to create your proposal. You have the option of starting from scratch or using premade templates.
But why start from scratch when you can build on research proposal examples?
Take advantage of Visme's customizable research proposal templates to streamline your workflow and easily create a professional-looking proposal.
By using a pre-designed research project proposal template, you'll save time and effort while ensuring that your proposal adheres to the standard guidelines and best practices of the research community.
With a wide range of templates available in Visme’s library, you're sure to find a research proposal sample that fits your needs
In the Visme dashboard, click Create New>Project and scroll to the category–Proposal . Browse through the collection of templates until you find one that best fits your industry or company.
Once you’ve selected your template, the next move is to write the content.
We’ve already broken down the key elements in a professional research proposal. But stick to the sections recommended by the funding agency or academic institution.
All you need to do is swap out the template’s placeholder content with yours. Visme’s intuitive editor makes it easy for you to add, edit or remove content or move design elements around the canvas.
You can modify your text, including adding, removing and adjusting the font size, style and color. The editor also includes options for changing text alignment and arrangement and animating your text.
When it comes to writing content, the Visme AI writer ensures you never run out of ideas. Simply input your prompt and the tool will generate a high-quality copy for you in minutes. You can even prompt the tool to improve your grammar or help flesh out your ideas.
Data visualization is a powerful tool for your research proposal. With Visme’s data visualization software , you can communicate complex ideas and provide context. To access data visualization features in Visme, click “Data” on the left tab. You’ll find options for
In the methodology section, use diagrams , flowcharts , or infographics to illustrate complex concepts and methods.
Incorporate charts , graphs , or tables to display data and visualize your findings or expected outcomes.
Create a section for the timeline and milestones. Use a Gantt chart or calendar to show the start and end dates for each task and milestone. Include key events such as data collection, data analysis and report submission.
Enhance the visual appeal of your proposal with the customization features in Visme.
Keep your proposal's branding consistent with Visme’s Brand Design Tool .
Just input your website URL and the wizard will pull up your logo, colors, fonts and other design elements. With your brand assets saved in your brand kit , you can apply your branding to your proposal in one click.
Incorporate high-quality images and graphics to make your proposal captivating. You can reach into Visme’s library of stock photos, icons, graphics and more. Or better yet, generate unique and high-quality photos, paintings, pencil drawings, 3D graphics, icons and abstract art using Visme’s AI image generator .
Engage readers and keep them interested in the proposal with Visme’s interactive elements, including pop ups, hover effects, clickable menus, hotspots and the flipbook effect. You can even embed videos and incorporate animated icons, illustrations and special effects.
To customize this proposal for multiple agencies without breaking a sweat, use dynamic fields to change key details. Set it up so it's easy for you to change information in seconds.
Once you’re sold on your design, you can share it with your stakeholders by generating an online link. This option enables you to retain all the interactive elements in your design.
Also, you can download it as a high-resolution JPEG, PNG, PDF or HTML5 file and share it offline.
With Visme’s analytics tool , you can track how many people have viewed, engaged, or taken other actions.
Writing a successful research proposal requires careful planning, attention to detail and a clear and compelling argument for the importance of your research. Here are some best practices to help you write a strong research proposal:
Before you start work on your research proposal, review and understand the specific requirements and guidelines set forth by your university or funding agency.
Although we’ve covered the essentials here, every institution has its own set of expectations.
Pay close attention to the requested format, structure and content expectations. Find out about the citation style, page length, word count limit, font size and type, etc.
Find out about their review process. What do they look for? How will they judge your work?
Understanding these details will help you write a better proposal. You can tailor your proposal to meet the needs of the reviewers and maximize your chances of getting funding or support for your research.
Before you send out your reports, share them with colleagues, advisors, or peers. Ask them to review your proposal and provide feedback. Use their suggestions to improve your proposal and make it more competitive.
The best part is that Visme’s collaboration tool makes this process seamless. You can add multiple people to your workspace and set permissions. Depending on their access level, your team members can edit your proposal, leave feedback, reply to comments, draw annotations and much more.
Academic writing often requires multiple drafts and research proposals are no exception. To ensure that your proposal is clear, coherent and persuasive, revise it multiple times. And if necessary, rewrite sections to make them even better.
Don't be afraid to make significant changes to the proposal. For example, this may entail reorganizing sections, revising the methodology, or even adjusting the research question entirely.
Thoroughly edit your proposal to correct grammar, spelling, punctuation and syntax errors. Also, ensure that your proposal maintains consistent formatting, styling and terminology. This can significantly enhance the quality and effectiveness of your proposal.
When writing a proposal , incorporate visual aids like tables, graphs and figures. They enhance the clarity and impact of your proposal. Visual aids simplify complex data and ideas, making it easier for reviewers to understand key findings, trends and patterns.
However, you want to use them sparingly for data storytelling as well. The rule of thumb is to use relevant types of visual aids. Also, visualize the most critical data and concepts that require illustration.
For instance, tables are useful for comparing data, while graphs and charts are ideal for showing trends and patterns. Diagrams and flowcharts can help explain complex processes or systems. Images and photographs are perfect for illustrating specific phenomena or contexts.
Remember, visual aids should supplement and reinforce your argument, not replace it. Embed them seamlessly into the text, providing context and explanation where necessary. This helps the reviewer connect the dots between your arguments and the supporting evidence.
RELATED: 5 Data Storytelling Tips for Creating More Persuasive Charts and Graphs
Whether you're just starting your thesis, seeking research grants, or a professional aiming to make a difference in your field, knowing how to write a compelling research proposal is crucial.
A great research proposal provides a clear sense of purpose and direction. It also increases your chances of obtaining grants, scholarships, or sponsorship.
Ready to create a compelling and effective research proposal? Visme has a wide variety of tools, features and resources to help you create one quickly.
Leverage Visme's proposal templates, intuitive editor and interactive features to make your proposal shine.
Sign up for your own Visme account and start designing your next compelling research proposal!
Trusted by leading brands
Design visual brand experiences for your business whether you are a seasoned designer or a total novice.
Newly Launched - AI Presentation Maker
Researched by Consultants from Top-Tier Management Companies
AI PPT Maker
Powerpoint Templates
Icon Bundle
Kpi Dashboard
Professional
Business Plans
Swot Analysis
Gantt Chart
Business Proposal
Marketing Plan
Project Management
Business Case
Business Model
Cyber Security
Business PPT
Digital Marketing
Digital Transformation
Human Resources
Product Management
Artificial Intelligence
Company Profile
Acknowledgement PPT
PPT Presentation
Reports Brochures
One Page Pitch
Interview PPT
All Categories
A research proposal is a preliminary document submitted to the approval authority to state the major objectives of a research project or study. It includes the reason for the research, guidelines, methodology, and benefits.
A research proposal also includes the methodologies and strategies to carry out the research. When writing a thesis, dissertation, or research paper, research proposals are required.
1. introduction.
This is an initial pitch for your research study meant for sponsors, approval authorities, and related professionals. The aim is to help them understand your love and passion for the subject. It should answer the following questions in brief:
● What is the central idea or problem to which this research will find a solution?
● What methods will be used?
● How should the research problem be analyzed?
● What benefits will it offer to society, sponsors and participants?
Learn how to draft an attention-grabbing introduction for your research proposals with the help of PowerPoint presentation templates using this guide .
In this section, describe the roots of your research study. Write this section assuming your audience needs an explanation for everything. This section will work as a dictionary for technical jargon used in research.
Mention existing studies and literature pieces associated with your research. The purpose of a literature review section is to show former publications as evidence of the originality to support your research. Write your own understanding of these previous findings. Do not copy the literature or its wording .
Add comments where you feel those studies are lacking and how your study will fill that void.
A literature review is rich in information and, hence, needs to be written in simple and understandable language. Structure the literature review in a compact, readable manner. We suggest breaking up the literature review into categories for easy assimilation and dissemination.
Pro tip: Choose an alphabet like “C” and make five categories starting with the same alphabet. Example as follow:
In this section, you will discuss data collection methods, techniques used to analyze that data, and validation of outcomes. This passage is important to convince the reader that the method you used was the most suited for your research purpose and that the results obtained are valid. As the reader is not actually reading your research, he/she might not be aware of the method and results; therefore, it is crucial to draft this section in a logical and thoughtful manner.
The best practice to follow while writing this section is to explain the methodologies in light of available literature. While describing a research operation, including the time you will spend completing the task. Finally, do share the obstacles you will encounter during your research and ways to go negotiate these obstacles.
In this section of the research proposal, you will share expected results and their impact on policies, existing research, future studies, and daily life. Use this part to talk about potential benefits and the research process. Answer questions like how this study will impact ongoing research.
Reiterate the importance and significance of your research in the conclusion. After reading this section, one must have the answers to questions like what prompted the research, solutions someone gets from this study, research design, and potential implications.
Cite the resources used to draft the research proposal. You can do it in the form of ‘references’ or ‘bibliography.’ This section shows that these are the sources for your research, and the work is accomplished (not duplicated) using these sources. A standard format of writing the citations is, e.g., source - author - history.
Research proposals are crucial for planning and presenting your investigation in a coherent manner. It allows you to get funds showcasing your knowledge of the problem domain. Here’s a list of 10 pre-designed research proposal templates , each allowing you to present your bid in a unique way.
This comprehensive step-to-step guide will help you understand the process of designing a proposal. With the help of our sample research proposal presentation deck , you can lay emphasis on elements of the research proposal that suit your specific needs.
Download this template
Academic research is a detailed study of a problem and finding facts and solutions through systematic and scientific procedures. While you are new to the world of research and presentation, this Academic Student Research Proposal Sample Template is the best way to start.
Once you find facts, literature, and other knowledge related to your research, how you present it to the audience is the convincing factor. This research paper proposal presentation example will help you impress the audience with your findings presented in an organized manner. Some of the pointers you get are issues addressed, proposed solutions, constraints, current practices, and advancements with this presentation template.
Our designers devised this research proposal sample for a thesis with great effort to add value to a research project. It covers a list of resources, data collection types, data analysis methods, and approaches to data collection. Using this template, walk your potential sponsor through the thesis timeline, from reading and research to other tasks and milestones.
Research has become a common thread in professional industries and pursuits as a way of testing the waters. In-depth research will be the first step when you want to penetrate a new market or improve an existing business. This template will help you draft a research proposal as a way to know the game you are going to play.
Organizations are investing massive amounts of money and resources in market research. This is a huge opportunity if you are running a research services firm. Cash in on this opportunity with this research proposal template to help our clients spot an opportunity before anyone else. Download now!
Research involves both quantitative and qualitative results. Employ this research proposal template to convince investors that you are the master of both techniques. Share the timeline, research objectives, deliverables (in terms of numbers), methods, investment, and key achievements with this sample research proposal template.
Use trusted quantitative & qualitative analysis methods to analyze research proposal data and present it in comprehensive manner with these sample presentation templates .
Businesses must know what customers expect from their products. For this, organizations start their product development with thorough market research. Design a winning bid and land new clients using our content-ready market research proposal. Help your organization or clients develop high-quality products in sync with demand with this market research proposal PPT layout.
Identify solutions to questions like profitable investment areas, target audience, and customer demands with the help of this template. Promise your clients an efficient market penetration strategy to generate revenue and increase the customer base with the use of this research proposal presentation template.
One of the seven methodologies to conduct successful research is the Survey. It helps gather massive data. Draft a survey research proposal using this ready-to-use presentation template and help the organization understand the market. Impress your client with your research and presentation skills with this pre-designed one-page proposal template .
From marketers to engineers, everyone uses research proposals with two objectives in mind. The first is to get the audience’s attention towards a problem, and the second is to secure funding. After studying multiple successful research proposals, our exclusive templates are designed to help you meet the research objectives.
Use our research proposal presentation templates designs to draft your research proposal and win clients in the first meeting!
1. what is the format of a research proposal.
A research proposal is a formal way to standardize, present ideas, and think about a significant matter or issue. The best format for drafting a research proposal is simple; it is similar to writing a detailed research thesis. It should start with an introduction of your research, including background, literature review, reason, benefits of research, potential implications, conclusion, and references.
Drafting a proposal in an intelligent and comprehensive manner is important for better connecting with all stakeholders. You can do this by dividing the research proposal into seven small and interconnected parts:
1. Title page and cover letter: Start your research proposal with a neat and professional cover letter. It is an integral part of a business research proposal, request for proposal (RFP), and funding proposals.
2. Table of contents: It is an all-inclusive guide for the reader so that he/she can easily reach the section of his/her interest.
3. Introduction/summary/ abstract: Here, you share a brief about your research problem and the solution you offer. Convince the reader that you have deep and comprehensive knowledge about the subject.
4. Background and significance: This is an extended part of the introduction. It helps the audience gain familiarity with the subject by putting the relevant or existing proofs forward. Here, you also share the importance and benefits of your study.
5. Literature review: It is the most complex and technical part of the proposal. Make it as simple as possible to keep the reader on track. It shares previous relevant breakthroughs in your problem domain.
6. Plan or approach: In this part, you will share and compare the methodologies, techniques, approaches, and reasons why they are the most suited for your research question.
7. References: This part is important as, here, you demonstrate your source material for gaining specialized knowledge or expertise. It validates the authenticity of your research work. References in research are essential to prove that your research is unique and original. This section is important as it also shows that your work is a synthesized or advanced version of previous research. It is not duplicated or plagiarized.
The most basic research proposal must include at least these four things:
1. Research Overview
2. Research context
3. Research Methods
4. Significance and implications
There is no standard upper or lower limit to the research proposal length or word count. It should answer these questions in detail — what is your research question, your proposed solution, how do you plan to do it, and what benefits will it give to investors and society? You should aim to complete the proposal in less than 2,500 words.
An executive summary or introduction is the most important of a research proposal. It introduces your work and also lists its aim. One must draft it creatively to ensure the stakeholders are curious and impressed and want to know more.
Download the free Research Plan Proposal PDF .
This form is protected by reCAPTCHA - the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Proposal Templates > Research Proposal Template
Ready to start on a research proposal, but don’t know where to begin? Why not start with our polished research proposal template that helps you get your research thoughts on paper and gives you a solid structure to present your research.
© York St John University 2024
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Dui id ornare arcu odio.
Felis bibendum ut tristique et egestas quis ipsum. Et netus et malesuada fames ac turpis egestas. Faucibus pulvinar elementum integer enim neque volutpat ac. Hac habitasse platea dictumst vestibulum rhoncus.
Nec ullamcorper sit amet risus nullam eget felis eget. Eget felis eget nunc lobortis mattis aliquam faucibus purus.
If you are doing academic research or any research for the company you work for, you will need to present the material in a professional fashion. A research proposal will help explain the intention behind the research you plan to conduct. It will also highlight the research techniques you plan to use. Making clear your intentions and methods is imperative if you want your proposal to impress those who must approve the project. This is where a research proposal template serves as a valuable and helpful resource.
A research paper proposal template breaks down all the necessary sections of the proposal into segments. You can use a research proposal example to help in designing your own template. But, you also have the choice of using a ready-made research paper outline template to make things easier for you.
When filling out the research proposal template you will still need to take considerable care in developing the proposal’s presentation. The proposal needs to be exact, easy to understand, and concise. Academic or business-oriented writing and language are essential. You will need to fill the template in such a way that your ideas still be in linear order. The most basic of formats must be the final shape of the presentation. In other words, your writing is fluid and move from the introduction to the body of the proposal. It must then continue with a fluid presentation into the conclusion of the document.
If you are writing a paper for an independent study or you are writing a dissertation in college, you will need to write a research proposal. The document must express the subject of your research. It must also include how you plan to go forth with the research. This document is of tremendous importance since it is the precursor to a larger body of work. The research paper proposal template is ideal for the following people:
Every research paper differs and is dependent upon the subject matter. You should talk with the supervisor of your project to find out about project expectations and deadlines. You can verify proposal deadlines and if the research you are interested in pursuing is acceptable.
The academic level and the purpose of the paper, whether a dissertation or some other type of assignment, plays a role in what goes into the initial proposal. However, there are some general elements one can expect to find in a proposal.
A quality research proposal example will reveal a document offering a clear, well-written outline describing your project’s undertaking. The plans you have for completing the research is something to include in the proposal. The goal of the proposal is so you can sway project funders to provide you with the monies needed to complete the necessary research. Or, it might be that your goal is to impress your professor by proving the knowledge you’ve accumulated will contribute to a successful research project.
No matter what you decide to research, the proposal will have some basic requirements to meet. The proposal must include the following:
It’s imperative that the abstract stays brief. The expectation is about 250 to 300 words in length. That’s about 10 percent of the total length of the research proposal. Longer than that, and it might deter the reader’s interest. It will also give you less room to discuss the goals and aims of the research project.
The length of the research proposal template is not long. You’ll find most writing requirements demand a word count of 2500 to 3000 words. Depending on spacing requirements, this might be three to five pages of information. This ensures concise writing. Of course, the study supervisor makes the final call on proposal length and necessary inclusions.
The research proposal template will have an area where you can put the title of the document. This title needs to be short, concise, and to the point. It should not take up more space than necessary. You’ll need to have a title that is absent of acronyms or abbreviations. The title needs to have a hook or stimulating words that will stir up the reader’s interest in what the research paper is about; you can use a research proposal example to get an idea about excellent title writing.
Within the title, if it is possible for you to do so, you need to give reference to the independent and dependent variables. If it is possible, the title needs to still be under 15 words. It should not be shorter than five words. There will be room for the catchy title on a research paper proposal template; it is here you will win the attentions of that all-important reader.
The title should be on a separate page and set apart from the rest of the template. Here, the author’s name, the class or course name, and the date of the work is necessary. The page numbers begin on the next page, but do not appear on the first page of the template.
Part of presenting a well-documented and researched paper is to make it available with ease of access. The table of contents follows the title page. The main chapters or sections of the paper must appear neat and orderly. Sub-headings are something you can add to make it easy to find the detailed portions of each section or chapter as well. If you can create a mock table of contents, it can serve as an outline for the paper’s structure. You can always edit the table later as you develop your research and expand on the subject matter.
The abstract is the next section you will see on a well-constructed research proposal template. This area has information about what the paper holds. The abstract is a summary so the reader gets an immediate understanding about the arguments or discoveries in the paper. The abstract should be in active voice if it is possible to do so.
The proper use of grammar and sentence style is also necessary when you are writing the abstract. You might benefit from writing the abstract portion of the paper last. This gives you an opportunity to work your way through the rest of the research paper outline template. It allows for the opportunity to develop a clear description of all the essential information the paper holds.
The abstract of the research proposal template needs to be short. You do not mention your references or research material at this point. All sentences should be complete and you should not use ellipses. Terms, jargon, and related abbreviations should appear the body of the paper. Do not reference your images at this point either. It is a clear and unambiguous explanation of the paper’s purpose only.
Depending on the research proposal template and assignment specifications, you might see a section where you must present some background information and the rationale for the paper. This is a section allowing you to describe how you decided to examine the subject of the paper.
You can help draw the interest of the reader if you explain how you became interested in what the paper explores. The answer needs to be brief, but by explaining the development of your interests, it will help the reader understand the point of you view you take when examining your subject matter. Here, a bit of your background and experience can also prove both beneficial and revealing.
In this section, you can touch on some of the supporting literature you will use to back your arguments. Your familiarity with the subject matter will become clear as you make mention of the types of work you’ve explored during the process of your planned research. The information of most value, however, will be the reason the project is a worthwhile expedition or endeavor; it’s your job to tell the reader the knowledge you expect to gain through the study.
As you examine one research proposal example after another, you will see the style of the paper differs on the type of coursework relating to the paper in question. You’ll also see differences in a research proposal template design when you are proposing diverse types of research. Some papers need an area where explore one or more research questions. Others might want a cut and dry introduction revealing the questions you plan to explore. The subject of your investigation and the questions you plan to answer need to have a clear definition. You need to know in advance what you plan to focus on with the work you are developing. Here you need to convince the reader you have a solid understanding of the subject and how you will approach it.
Some research paper proposal template selections will include an area where you can include a literary review. This section allows you to make a list of the literature you have explored to support your research. It can also list the literature you plan to examine to find evidence supporting your theories or position. The literature review is a place to give the reader with a summary of existing literature, and your interpretation of that literature. Emphasis is on your interpretation here; you don’t want to regurgitate someone else’s work. You want to interpret what you’ve found and enhance it by adding your own opinion to it. In this section, you’ll also need to find any gaps that might be in existing research. If your theory or presentation plans to address this gap in knowledge, you can identify that fact in this section by explaining how it will supply the missing knowledge.
The Framework or Methodology of the Proposal
This is the part of the research proposal template that needs information in relation to the methods you plan to use to research and support your argument. Are there special methods or procedures you must use? Here, you’ll have to source your information and data. The reader can internalize the information and consider whether it is valid or not. Your means of analysis will also undergo the reader’s scrutiny. The inclusion of the method section of is imperative. No matter what subject you are covering, if the information you are using is outdated, outmoded, spurious, or if your focus is too rigid, you can end up with a research project featuring weak or refutable arguments.
Since there are many methods for conducting research, you’ll need to clarify your research techniques. This section of the research template proposal gives you the chance to reveal the reasons why you choose one method of research over others. For example, did you use an observational method when you conducted your research ? Did you interact with any subjects in the study? If so, how did you interact? Did you offer a questionnaire for students to answer? What size was the representative sample for the questionnaire? Clarifying your method will allow the reader to understand how you approached the research.
A research proposal template can help simplify the task of proposing research for a dissertation, job, or research grant approval. While the template helps in designing a proposal that helps a supervisor or governing body understand your theories and methods, it is also a paper that helps you in developing an understanding of how to continue with writing the longer dissertation. It will serve as a documented outline of the literary pieces you’ll need to review for project completion. The proposal also defines your theory in concrete terms, so you can compare your findings with the initial assertions you set forth in the proposal. You may find your argument and findings evolve during the course of the research.
IMAGES
COMMENTS
A research proposal aims to show why your project is worthwhile. It should explain the context, objectives, and methods of your research.
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
Research Proposal Example/Sample. Detailed Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template. If you're getting started crafting your research proposal and are looking for a few examples of research proposals, you've come to the right place. In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals, one for a Master's-level ...
A research design is a strategy for answering your research question using empirical data. Creating a research design means making decisions about: Your overall research objectives and approach. Whether you'll rely on primary research or secondary research. Your sampling methods or criteria for selecting subjects. Your data collection methods.
Research Proposal Format Example. Following is a general outline of the material that should be included in your project proposal. I. Title Page II. Introduction and Literature Review (Chapters 2 and 3) A. Identification of specific problem area (e.g., what is it, why it is important). B. Prevalence, scope of problem.
A well-planned research design helps ensure that your methods match your research aims and that you use the right kind of analysis for your data. You might have to write up a research design as a standalone assignment, or it might be part of a larger research proposal or other project.
How To Write a Research Proposal. Writing a Research proposal involves several steps to ensure a well-structured and comprehensive document. Here is an explanation of each step: 1. Title and Abstract. Choose a concise and descriptive title that reflects the essence of your research. Write an abstract summarizing your research question ...
Learn how to write a research proposal for a dissertation or thesis. Includes loads of examples plus our free research proposal template.
Research Proposal Tools and Sample Student Proposals Sample research proposals written by doctoral students in each of the key areas covered in Research Design --quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods—are provided as a useful reference. A Research Proposal checklist also serves to help guide your own proposal-writing.
Download Grad Coach's comprehensive research proposal template for free. Includes loads of examples and links to additional free resources.
Here are 8 research proposal examples and templates to help you craft compelling research proposals. Customize them to pitch your research idea to institutions.
Before you conduct your research, learn how to write an effective proposal for your project with our helpful guide on what to include and tips for writing.
A research idea on your mind? Use this research proposal template as a guide to pitch your research idea to your institution.
Research design is a plan of investigation conceived to obtain an answer to research questions. Follow the steps for perfect research design.
Academic Research Proposal. This is the most common type of research proposal, which is prepared by students, scholars, or researchers to seek approval and funding for an academic research project. It includes all the essential components mentioned earlier, such as the introduction, literature review, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Learn how to write an expert research proposal. We've included templates to help you create a winning proposal that will get your research project funded.
A quality example of a research proposal shows one's above-average analytical skills, including the ability to coherently synthesize ideas and integrate lateral and vertical thinking. Communication skills. The proposal also demonstrates your proficiency to communicate your thoughts in concise and precise language.
Here's a list of 10 pre-designed research proposal templates, each allowing you to present your bid in a unique way. 1. Research Proposal Steps PowerPoint Sample Template. This comprehensive step-to-step guide will help you understand the process of designing a proposal.
Research design refers to the overall strategy or plan for conducting a research study. It outlines the methods and procedures that will be..
Kickstart your research proposal by using our free research proposal template that comes with pre-built sections. Customize, deliver, and track in minutes.
Research proposals Your research proposal is a key part of your application. It tells us about the question you want to answer through your research. It is a chance for you to show your knowledge of the subject area and tell us about the methods you want to use.
You can use our research proposal examples to help in designing your own template. Download 40 free research proposal samples & format guidelines.