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• How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

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

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

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

Introduction

Literature review.

• Research design

Reference list

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

Table of contents

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

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

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

Research proposal length

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

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

Download our research proposal template

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

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

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

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

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

Your introduction should:

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

To guide your introduction , include information about:

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

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

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

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

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

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

For example, your results might have implications for:

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

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

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

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

Download our research schedule template

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

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

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

To determine your budget, think about:

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

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

Methodology

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

 Statistics

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

Research bias

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

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

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

I will compare …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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What (Exactly) Is A Research Proposal?

A simple explainer with examples + free template.

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2020 (Updated April 2023)

Whether you’re nearing the end of your degree and your dissertation is on the horizon, or you’re planning to apply for a PhD program, chances are you’ll need to craft a convincing research proposal . If you’re on this page, you’re probably unsure exactly what the research proposal is all about. Well, you’ve come to the right place.

Overview: Research Proposal Basics

• What a research proposal is
• What a research proposal needs to cover
• How to structure your research proposal
• Example /sample proposals
• Proposal writing FAQs
• Key takeaways & additional resources

What is a research proposal?

Simply put, a research proposal is a structured, formal document that explains what you plan to research (your research topic), why it’s worth researching (your justification), and how  you plan to investigate it (your methodology). 

The purpose of the research proposal (its job, so to speak) is to convince  your research supervisor, committee or university that your research is  suitable  (for the requirements of the degree program) and  manageable  (given the time and resource constraints you will face). 

The most important word here is “ convince ” – in other words, your research proposal needs to  sell  your research idea (to whoever is going to approve it). If it doesn’t convince them (of its suitability and manageability), you’ll need to revise and resubmit . This will cost you valuable time, which will either delay the start of your research or eat into its time allowance (which is bad news). 

What goes into a research proposal?

A good dissertation or thesis proposal needs to cover the “ what “, “ why ” and” how ” of the proposed study. Let’s look at each of these attributes in a little more detail:

Your proposal needs to clearly articulate your research topic . This needs to be specific and unambiguous . Your research topic should make it clear exactly what you plan to research and in what context. Here’s an example of a well-articulated research topic:

An investigation into the factors which impact female Generation Y consumer’s likelihood to promote a specific makeup brand to their peers: a British context

As you can see, this topic is extremely clear. From this one line we can see exactly:

• What’s being investigated – factors that make people promote or advocate for a brand of a specific makeup brand
• Who it involves – female Gen-Y consumers
• In what context – the United Kingdom

So, make sure that your research proposal provides a detailed explanation of your research topic . If possible, also briefly outline your research aims and objectives , and perhaps even your research questions (although in some cases you’ll only develop these at a later stage). Needless to say, don’t start writing your proposal until you have a clear topic in mind , or you’ll end up waffling and your research proposal will suffer as a result of this.

Need a helping hand?

As we touched on earlier, it’s not good enough to simply propose a research topic – you need to justify why your topic is original . In other words, what makes it  unique ? What gap in the current literature does it fill? If it’s simply a rehash of the existing research, it’s probably not going to get approval – it needs to be fresh.

But,  originality  alone is not enough. Once you’ve ticked that box, you also need to justify why your proposed topic is  important . In other words, what value will it add to the world if you achieve your research aims?

As an example, let’s look at the sample research topic we mentioned earlier (factors impacting brand advocacy). In this case, if the research could uncover relevant factors, these findings would be very useful to marketers in the cosmetics industry, and would, therefore, have commercial value . That is a clear justification for the research.

So, when you’re crafting your research proposal, remember that it’s not enough for a topic to simply be unique. It needs to be useful and value-creating – and you need to convey that value in your proposal. If you’re struggling to find a research topic that makes the cut, watch  our video covering how to find a research topic .

It’s all good and well to have a great topic that’s original and valuable, but you’re not going to convince anyone to approve it without discussing the practicalities – in other words:

• How will you actually undertake your research (i.e., your methodology)?
• Is your research methodology appropriate given your research aims?
• Is your approach manageable given your constraints (time, money, etc.)?

While it’s generally not expected that you’ll have a fully fleshed-out methodology at the proposal stage, you’ll likely still need to provide a high-level overview of your research methodology . Here are some important questions you’ll need to address in your research proposal:

• Will you take a qualitative , quantitative or mixed -method approach?
• What sampling strategy will you adopt?
• How will you collect your data (e.g., interviews, surveys, etc)?
• How will you analyse your data (e.g., descriptive and inferential statistics , content analysis, discourse analysis, etc, .)?
• What potential limitations will your methodology carry?

So, be sure to give some thought to the practicalities of your research and have at least a basic methodological plan before you start writing up your proposal. If this all sounds rather intimidating, the video below provides a good introduction to research methodology and the key choices you’ll need to make.

How To Structure A Research Proposal

Now that we’ve covered the key points that need to be addressed in a proposal, you may be wondering, “ But how is a research proposal structured? “.

While the exact structure and format required for a research proposal differs from university to university, there are four “essential ingredients” that commonly make up the structure of a research proposal:

• A rich introduction and background to the proposed research
• An initial literature review covering the existing research
• An overview of the proposed research methodology
• A discussion regarding the practicalities (project plans, timelines, etc.)

In the video below, we unpack each of these four sections, step by step.

Research Proposal Examples/Samples

In the video below, we provide a detailed walkthrough of two successful research proposals (Master’s and PhD-level), as well as our popular free proposal template.

Proposal Writing FAQs

How long should a research proposal be.

This varies tremendously, depending on the university, the field of study (e.g., social sciences vs natural sciences), and the level of the degree (e.g. undergraduate, Masters or PhD) – so it’s always best to check with your university what their specific requirements are before you start planning your proposal.

As a rough guide, a formal research proposal at Masters-level often ranges between 2000-3000 words, while a PhD-level proposal can be far more detailed, ranging from 5000-8000 words. In some cases, a rough outline of the topic is all that’s needed, while in other cases, universities expect a very detailed proposal that essentially forms the first three chapters of the dissertation or thesis.

The takeaway – be sure to check with your institution before you start writing.

How do I choose a topic for my research proposal?

Finding a good research topic is a process that involves multiple steps. We cover the topic ideation process in this video post.

How do I write a literature review for my proposal?

While you typically won’t need a comprehensive literature review at the proposal stage, you still need to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the key literature and are able to synthesise it. We explain the literature review process here.

How do I create a timeline and budget for my proposal?

We explain how to craft a project plan/timeline and budget in Research Proposal Bootcamp .

Which referencing format should I use in my research proposal?

The expectations and requirements regarding formatting and referencing vary from institution to institution. Therefore, you’ll need to check this information with your university.

What common proposal writing mistakes do I need to look out for?

We’ve create a video post about some of the most common mistakes students make when writing a proposal – you can access that here . If you’re short on time, here’s a quick summary:

• The research topic is too broad (or just poorly articulated).
• The research aims, objectives and questions don’t align.
• The research topic is not well justified.
• The study has a weak theoretical foundation.
• The research design is not well articulated well enough.
• Poor writing and sloppy presentation.
• Poor project planning and risk management.
• Not following the university’s specific criteria.

Key Takeaways & Additional Resources

As you write up your research proposal, remember the all-important core purpose:  to convince . Your research proposal needs to sell your study in terms of suitability and viability. So, focus on crafting a convincing narrative to ensure a strong proposal.

At the same time, pay close attention to your university’s requirements. While we’ve covered the essentials here, every institution has its own set of expectations and it’s essential that you follow these to maximise your chances of approval.

By the way, we’ve got plenty more resources to help you fast-track your research proposal. Here are some of our most popular resources to get you started:

• Proposal Writing 101 : A Introductory Webinar
• Research Proposal Bootcamp : The Ultimate Online Course
• Template : A basic template to help you craft your proposal

If you’re looking for 1-on-1 support with your research proposal, be sure to check out our private coaching service , where we hold your hand through the proposal development process (and the entire research journey), step by step.

Psst… there’s more!

This post is an extract from our bestselling Udemy Course, Research Proposal Bootcamp . If you want to work smart, you don't want to miss this .

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51 Comments

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In view of the above, I welcome more coaching.

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Bundle of thanks to you for the research proposal guide it was really good and useful if it is possible please send me the sample of research proposal

You’re most welcome. We don’t have any research proposals that we can share (the students own the intellectual property), but you might find our research proposal template useful: https://gradcoach.com/research-proposal-template/

Cheruiyot Moses Kipyegon

Thanks alot. It was an eye opener that came timely enough before my imminent proposal defense. Thanks, again

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I am an undergraduate student (First Degree) preparing to write my project,this video and explanation had shed more light to me thanks for your efforts keep it up.

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Thank you. This is a great insight. I am a student preparing for a PhD program. I am requested to write my Research Proposal as part of what I am required to submit before my unconditional admission. I am grateful having listened to this video which will go a long way in helping me to actually choose a topic of interest and not just any topic as well as to narrow down the topic and be specific about it. I indeed need more of this especially as am trying to choose a topic suitable for a DBA am about embarking on. Thank you once more. The video is indeed helpful.

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Proposal Template AI

Free proposal templates in word, powerpoint, pdf and more

Research Project Proposal Template: A Comprehensive Guide + Free Template Download + How to Write it

Research project proposal template: a guide to writing a winning proposal.

As a researcher, crafting a well-thought-out project proposal is crucial to securing funding and approval for your research endeavors. A research project proposal template serves as a helpful guide in structuring and organizing your proposal, highlighting key elements that are essential for a successful proposal.

In this article, I will discuss the importance of using a research project proposal template, and how it differs from a standard proposal. I will also provide insight into the key components of a winning research project proposal. So, if you’re looking to streamline your proposal writing process and increase your chances of approval, this guide is for you.

Research Project Proposal Template

Example: “Understanding the Role of Insulin Signaling in Obesity”

My advice on writing the title is to be clear, concise, and impactful. The title should clearly state the focus of your research project and catch the reader’s attention. It’s important to choose a title that accurately represents the scope of your study.

Introduction

Example: Obesity is a major public health concern, and understanding the underlying mechanisms of this condition is essential for developing effective treatment strategies. Insulin signaling has been identified as a key player in metabolic regulation and has been implicated in the development of obesity. Therefore, this research project aims to investigate the role of insulin signaling in obesity.

When writing the introduction, it’s important to provide background information on the topic and clearly state the research problem or question. It’s also important to highlight the significance of the research and its potential impact on the field.

Example: 1. To examine the relationship between insulin resistance and obesity in a cohort of overweight and obese individuals. 2. To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying insulin resistance in adipose tissue. 3. To assess the potential therapeutic targets for improving insulin sensitivity in obese individuals.

When outlining the objectives of your research project, it’s important to be specific and measurable. Clearly defined objectives will help guide your research and demonstrate a clear plan for achieving your research goals .

Literature Review

Example: Previous studies have shown that obesity is associated with impaired insulin signaling and increased insulin resistance. Furthermore, adipose tissue plays a crucial role in modulating insulin action and energy homeostasis. However, the specific mechanisms underlying insulin resistance in obesity remain poorly understood. This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on insulin signaling in the context of obesity.

When conducting a literature review , it’s important to critically analyze and synthesize existing research to identify gaps in the current knowledge. This will help justify the need for your research project and demonstrate your understanding of the existing literature.

Methodology

Example: This research project will utilize a combination of clinical and laboratory-based methods to achieve its objectives. Clinical assessments will include anthropometric measurements, glucose tolerance tests, and insulin sensitivity assays. Laboratory-based experiments will involve molecular and cellular techniques to investigate insulin signaling pathways and adipose tissue function.

In the methodology section , it’s important to provide a detailed plan for how you will conduct your research. Be clear about the methods and techniques you will use, and justify why these methods are appropriate for addressing your research objectives .

Example: – Literature review: 3 months – Data collection : 6 months – Data analysis: 2 months – Report writing : 3 months

When creating a timeline for your research project, it’s important to be realistic and allow sufficient time for each stage of the research process . This will help you stay on track and ensure that you can complete your project within the specified timeframe.

Example: – Personnel: $20,000 – Laboratory supplies: $10,000 – Participant recruitment and compensation: $5,000 – Data analysis software: $3,000

When estimating the budget for your research project, it’s important to consider all potential expenses and justify the costs of each item. Be thorough and realistic in your budget planning , and ensure that you have allocated sufficient funds for each aspect of your research.

My advice on writing the conclusion is to summarize the key points of your research proposal and reiterate the significance of your study. Emphasize the potential impact of your research and highlight the next steps for your project. Finally, express your enthusiasm and commitment to conducting the proposed research.

Download free Research Project Proposal Template in Word DocX, Powerpoint PPTX, and PDF. We included Research Project Proposal Template examples as well.

Download Free Research Project Proposal Template PDF and Examples Download Free Research Project Proposal Template Word Document

Download Free Research Project Proposal Template Powerpoint

Research Project Proposal Template FAQ

What is a research project proposal.

A research project proposal is a document that outlines the plan for a research project. It includes the research question , background information, methodology, and expected outcomes .

Why is a research project proposal important?

A research project proposal is important because it helps to define the scope and objectives of the research project, seek approval from stakeholders, and secure funding.

What should be included in a research project proposal?

A research project proposal should include a title, abstract, introduction, literature review , research question, methodology, expected outcomes , timeline, and budget.

How should the research question be formulated in a research project proposal?

The research question should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). It should clearly articulate the problem to be addressed and the objectives of the research.

What is the significance of the literature review in a research project proposal?

The literature review provides an overview of existing knowledge related to the research question, and it helps to justify the need for the proposed research project.

How should the methodology section be structured in a research project proposal?

The methodology section should detail the research design , data collection methods, data analysis techniques , and any other procedures or tools to be used in the research project.

Why is it important to include a timeline and budget in a research project proposal?

The timeline and budget provide a realistic plan for the completion of the research project and ensure that resources are allocated appropriately.

How should the expected outcomes be articulated in a research project proposal?

The expected outcomes should be clearly defined and aligned with the research question. They should also indicate the potential impact of the research findings .

What are the key factors to consider when reviewing and revising a research project proposal?

When reviewing and revising a research project proposal, it is important to consider the clarity, feasibility, originality, and significance of the research project, as well as the alignment of the proposal with the funding agency’s guidelines.

How can I ensure that my research project proposal is strong and convincing?

To ensure that your research project proposal is strong and convincing, it is important to conduct thorough research, clearly articulate the problem and significance of the research, and address any potential limitations or challenges. Additionally, seeking feedback from peers or mentors can help strengthen the proposal.

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Research Project Proposal Template

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Embarking on a research project can be both exciting and daunting. From defining your objectives to outlining your methodology, there are countless details to consider. But fear not! ClickUp's Research Project Proposal Template is here to simplify the process and set you up for success.

With ClickUp's template, you can:

• Clearly articulate your research goals and objectives
• Outline your research methodology and data collection techniques
• Define your project timeline and allocate resources effectively
• Collaborate with your team and stakeholders in real-time
• Track progress and milestones to ensure timely completion

Whether you're conducting academic research or working on a business project, ClickUp's Research Project Proposal Template has got you covered. Start your research journey on the right foot and bring your ideas to life with ClickUp!

Benefits of Research Project Proposal Template

When it comes to research projects, having a solid proposal is crucial. The Research Project Proposal Template can help you:

• Clearly outline your research objectives, methods, and expected outcomes
• Streamline the proposal writing process, saving you time and effort
• Ensure consistency and professionalism in your proposal format
• Increase your chances of securing funding or approval for your research project
• Provide a structured framework for organizing and presenting your research ideas
• Collaborate with team members and stakeholders more effectively

Main Elements of Research Project Proposal Template

ClickUp's Research Project Proposal template is the perfect tool to plan and execute your research projects effectively. Here are the main elements of this Whiteboard template:

• Custom Statuses: Keep track of the progress of your research projects with two customizable statuses - Open and Complete.
• Custom Fields: Utilize custom fields to capture essential information about your research projects, such as project objectives, research questions, methodology, and more.
• Project Proposal View: Use the Project Proposal view to outline the details of your research project, including goals, timelines, resources, and deliverables.
• Getting Started Guide View: Access the Getting Started Guide view to provide step-by-step instructions and guidelines for team members to kickstart the research project.
• Collaboration and Communication: Leverage ClickUp's collaboration features, such as task comments, mentions, and notifications, to foster seamless communication and collaboration among team members.
• Attachments and Integrations: Easily attach relevant documents, research papers, and files to your research project tasks. Integrate with popular research tools and platforms to streamline your workflow and enhance productivity.

How to Use Project Proposal for Research

If you're embarking on a research project and need to create a proposal, follow these steps to effectively use the Research Project Proposal Template in ClickUp:

1. Define your research objectives

Before diving into your proposal, clearly define the objectives of your research project. What questions do you want to answer? What outcomes do you hope to achieve? This will serve as the foundation for your proposal.

Use the Goals feature in ClickUp to set clear and measurable objectives for your research project.

2. Outline your research methodology

Next, outline the methodology you plan to use to conduct your research. Will you be conducting surveys, interviews, or experiments? How will you collect and analyze data? Providing a clear and detailed description of your research methodology will help ensure that your proposal is comprehensive and well-executed.

Utilize the Docs feature in ClickUp to create a structured outline of your research methodology.

3. Identify necessary resources and timeline

Determine the resources you will need to successfully carry out your research project. This may include equipment, software, or access to specific databases. Additionally, create a timeline that outlines the key milestones and deadlines for your research.

Use the Gantt chart feature in ClickUp to visually map out your research timeline and allocate resources accordingly.

4. Develop a budget

Estimate the costs associated with your research project. This may include expenses such as participant incentives, data analysis software, or travel expenses. Developing a budget will help ensure that you have the necessary funds to carry out your research.

Create custom fields in ClickUp to track and manage your research project budget.

5. Review and finalize your proposal

Once you have completed the previous steps, review your proposal to ensure that it is clear, concise, and aligned with your research objectives. Make any necessary revisions or additions before finalizing your proposal and submitting it for approval.

Set up Automations in ClickUp to receive notifications and reminders for proposal review and approval processes.

By following these steps and utilizing the Research Project Proposal Template in ClickUp, you can effectively plan and present your research project to stakeholders, ensuring a well-structured and successful endeavor.

Get Started with ClickUp's Research Project Proposal Template

Researchers and academics can use this Research Project Proposal Template to streamline the process of writing and submitting research proposals.

First, hit “Get Free Solution” to sign up for ClickUp and add the template to your Workspace. Make sure you designate which Space or location in your Workspace you’d like this template applied.

Next, invite relevant members or guests to your Workspace to start collaborating.

Now you can take advantage of the full potential of this template to create a comprehensive research proposal:

• Use the Project Proposal View to outline your research project, including the research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes
• The Getting Started Guide View will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write and structure your research proposal, making the process easier to follow
• Organize research tasks into two different statuses: Open and Complete, to track the progress of each task
• Update statuses as you complete individual tasks to keep team members informed of your progress
• Collaborate with colleagues and mentors to gather feedback and make improvements to your research proposal
• Use the built-in document editor, Docs, to write and edit your research proposal directly within ClickUp
• Monitor and analyze tasks to ensure maximum productivity and timely completion of your research project.

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Writing a Scientific Research Project Proposal

• 5 minute read
• 94.8K views

Table of Contents

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.

Language Editing Services

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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Research Project Proposal Templates That Ace Your Funding Quest!

Naveen Kumar

Research projects have long been the bedrock of innovation and progress, propelling industries forward and enriching human lives. For instance, in the not-so-distant past, electric vehicles were a mere concept, far from practicality and mainstream adoption. It was a research project that catapulted this futuristic vision of the 18th century into the present reality. Pioneering researchers studied and refined battery technologies, leading to the development of high-performance lithium-ion batteries. This breakthrough innovation was the cornerstone of the electric vehicle revolution. 

In the boundless realm of research, the transformative power of human ingenuity shines through as countless fields embark on awe-inspiring projects that edge us closer to a brighter and more promising future. From groundbreaking studies like the efficacy of "caffeine-naps" for patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) to Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.'s innovative research driving electric vehicle mobility, transformative endeavors are revolutionizing industries and enriching lives with each step taken towards progress.

Proposals in Research Projects

At the heart of every successful research project lies a well-conceived proposal. A research proposal is a comprehensive roadmap articulating the vision, objectives, methodology, and anticipated outcomes. More than that, it is the cornerstone of securing essential funding, resources, and support from institutions, organizations, or stakeholders. With the growing competition for research grants and limited resources, a compelling research proposal is an indispensable tool for researchers to garner the support needed to turn their visions into reality.

Key Components of a Research Project Proposal

Crafting an effective research project proposal is a skill that requires precision, clarity, and strategic thinking. A comprehensive proposal should encompass these key components:

• Project Overview: This section provides a concise summary of the research objectives, the problem being addressed, and the intended impact on the industry or society.
• Literature Review: A thorough analysis of existing literature and research helps position the proposed study within the broader context and demonstrates the novelty of the project.
• Methodology: This outlines the research design, data collection methods, analysis techniques, and ethical considerations to showcase the rigor involved in the project.  
• Timeline and Milestones: A realistic and well-structured timeline highlights the project's feasibility and showcases the researchers' ability to manage resources efficiently.
• Budget and Justification: The budget proposal delineates financial requirements, allocating resources to specific aspects of the study and demonstrating a clear understanding of resource utilization.

Visionary Research Project Proposal Templates

Crafting a compelling research project proposal has always been a formidable challenge for researchers, often consuming valuable time and resources. Fret not! Our research project proposal templates are here to revolutionize the way you approach proposal writing.

Gone are the days of grappling with the complexities of formatting and structuring your presentations. With 100% customizable templates, you now have the desired flexibility to edit and mold your proposal in an effortless way according to your unique vision and research objectives. The content-ready slides offer the much-needed structure, ensuring that your proposal flows smoothly and captivates the attention of reviewers from the outset.

Let's understand the step-by-step process of writing a proposal while exploring these research project proposal templates.

Download this complete research project proposal

1. Abstract Templates for Research Project Proposal

Engage your audience from the start, showcasing the essence of your thesis and enticing them to delve deeper into your research. These professionally-designed templates offer a concise summary of your thesis, encompassing the project's inception, the opportunity it addresses, the expected outcomes, the research methods employed, and key findings. Our versatile templates provide a brief yet comprehensive snapshot of your research paper , including a clear description of its content, scope, anticipated results, and conclusion. Communicate the significance of your research, leaving a lasting impression on your audience and compelling them to explore the full depth of your study. Download these now!

Download these templates

2. Problem Statement Overview Presentation Template

With this problem statement presentation design, you can communicate the essence of your research and set the stage for an impactful proposal. This presentation template features a customizable image at the top to contextualize the issue. Below the image, a concise and compelling description of the problem in the research area lays the foundation for your project. It has four columns that present critical aspects of the problem statement in a succinct manner. The first column articulates the problems in the research area. In the second column, you will find space to write the limitations or issues your project aims to tackle, showcasing your project's intended scope and objectives. The third column offers a glimpse into the current practices employed to deal with these constraints, and the fourth column highlights the cutting-edge advancements your project brings to address these constraints, emphasizing the innovative approach you're taking to tackle the problem. Get it now!

Download this template

3. Research Questions And Hypothesis Presentation Templates

With these hypothesis presentation designs, you have the ideal platform to engage reviewers in an effective way, ensuring they grasp the significance of your research. The PPT Layouts allow you to anticipate and address key questions that are likely to arise in the minds of reviewers. With strategic-designed spaces to outline these questions beforehand, your answers will demonstrate your project's thoroughness in a proactive manner. Researchers can present their core hypothesis and the expected impact these PowerPoint Sets will create. They empower you to articulate your hypothesis with precision, showcasing the foundation upon which your study is built. You can emphasize the potential outcomes and contributions your research aims to make, leaving reviewers intrigued and eager to learn more. Grab it today!

4. Research Objectives And Key Assertions PPT Slide

This PowerPoint Slide empowers you to present the essence of your research project with clarity and impact. At the top, you have the freedom to customize the space with an image, logo, or visual graphics like tables or screenshots, providing a visual context to mesmerize your audience. Beneath the captivating visual, this template showcases two essential elements: the "List of Questions" your research project will answer and the "List of Goals" that will be achieved through your study. Articulate your research objectives with precision, highlighting specific questions your project addresses and showcasing the depth and breadth of your inquiry. Download it now!

5. Literature Review Templates for Research Project Proposal

Curate a compelling narrative that showcases your research's alignment with existing knowledge while emphasizing the novel approach your project brings to the field with these literature review designs. The first template empowers you to present a comprehensive overview of relevant literature. It allows you to capture the essence of previous studies with precision, highlighting key findings and insights. You can analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the current research to lay the foundation for the originality and importance of your proposed study. With the second literature review template, the researchers can delve deeper into the theoretical and methodological aspects of previous literature. Emphasize the invaluable contributions these studies have made to your research area, demonstrating your in-depth understanding of the academic landscape using our PPT Layouts.

6. Project Sample Size Template for Research Proposal

With our project sample size slide, you can present a cohesive and comprehensive understanding of your sampling process, showcasing your research's rigor and adherence to best practices. Use this template to present key insights, methodologies, and notable points about your sampling approach. At the top of the template, an image visually depicts what the sample refers to, providing clarity and context. Beneath the image, use the adjacent space to communicate vital information about the sampling process. Share the characteristics of your target audience, outlining the specific demographics or traits that define your sample. It allows you to highlight exceptions or unique features within your sample, ensuring transparency and credibility in your research methodology. This template empowers you to communicate the rationale behind your sample size, the data collection methods employed, and factors that might influence the research outcome. Get it now!

7. Data Collection Method for Research Presentation Template

This comprehensive PowerPoint Set provides an information-rich flowchart diagram that bifurcates into primary and secondary sources of data collection. The flowchart diagram guides researchers through the primary and secondary data collection processes, ensuring clarity and coherence. Beneath each title, ample space is provided to write key points related to each type of data collection. In the editable space, researchers can articulate the intricacies of the data collection process, including the steps involved, the list of sources used, and the differences between primary and secondary data collection methods. It allows you to highlight the reliability, validity, and appropriateness of your chosen data collection approach, showcasing the stringency and soundness of your research design. Grab it today!

8. Research Data Analysis Strategies Presentation Template 

Designed with flexibility in mind, this template allows you to present qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques in a seamless manner. With this presentation set, you can highlight qualitative data analysis methods such as content and narrative analysis, showcasing your proficiency in uncovering meaningful insights from textual or narrative data. It provides a platform to present quantitative data analysis techniques like regression analysis, situation analysis, and hypothesis testing. Demonstrate your expertise in handling numerical data by communicating the statistical and analytical tools you plan to utilize in your research. With 100% customizable text, images, themes, and designs, this template enables you to craft a presentation that aligns with your research project's needs and objectives. Download it now!

9. Research Project Timeline Presentation Template

This intuitive PowerPoint Layout offers a  clear overview of project tasks and durations. The vertical columns represent the months of the year, starting from the left corner and extending to the next consecutive year on the right corner, ensuring a seamless and understandable display of time progression. The horizontal rows represent essential tasks or phases of your project. The bars within the table visually depict the duration taken to complete each task, providing a quick and concise overview of your project's timeline. Above the table, you can highlight milestones with specific dates, ensuring that reviewers and stakeholders can easily grasp the key achievements and critical moments in your project. Get it now!

10. References/Bibliography Template for Research Project Proposal

Ensure the credibility and thoroughness of your research project proposal with this essential template that provides a comprehensive space to showcase your references and sources, adhering to referring conventions. It retains the crucial aspects of your research project bibliography with a list of referring conventions you have used. Use this template to list secondary works and primary sources, providing transparency in the sources you have consulted and verifying the reliability and accuracy of the information presented in the proposal to the reviewers. In the end, the template offers a designated area for signatories, enabling you to include the names and affiliations of experts or advisors who have contributed to the research or endorsed the proposal, adding further credibility. Grab it today!

Bonus: One-page Research Project Proposal PPT Template

SlideTeam's proposal presentation, crafted by industry experts, ensures the perfect blend of content, design, and sequence. Present your project proposal with confidence using this one-page research template that showcases the study summary, background & significance, and chosen methodology. From the timeline, milestones, and literature review to cost estimate, this PPT Design covers essential details of your research project. Download it now!

Propel Your Vision Forward

A streamlined, efficient process to create investor-winning professional proposals with ease allows researchers to devote more time and focus on the essence of their research. It saves hours of effort, budget, and around ten cups of coffee for them. Our templates are the ultimate solution to resolve the common challenges that researchers face, providing the key to unlocking success and realizing your transformative research endeavors. Over that, to ensure that your proposal stands out and secures vital funds for your research, here are three essential tips:

• Clear Objectives and Innovation : Begin by articulating your research objectives with clarity and precision. Showcase the novelty and innovative aspects of your project, demonstrating its potential to bring about transformative change or address pressing issues.
• Solid Methodology and Feasibility : A robust research methodology is the backbone of a compelling proposal. Outline your data collection methods, analysis techniques, and potential challenges, demonstrating a deep understanding of the research process. Showcase the feasibility of your project by presenting a well-structured timeline, showing that you have considered the resources needed to execute your research in an effective way.
• Impact and Benefits : Highlight the potential implications and real-world benefits of your research project. Explain how it aligns with broader societal or industry needs, and emphasize the positive outcomes. A proposal that demonstrates the tangible benefits of the research is more likely to win the support of funding agencies or stakeholders.

By incorporating these three tips into your proposal with our research project proposal templates, you can present a compelling case that captivates reviewers and secures the funds needed to turn your visionary ideas into transformative realities.

Download these research project proposal templates and embark on a journey of groundbreaking discoveries that will shape the future of research and leave an indelible mark on the world.

FAQs on Research Project Proposal 

What is a project proposal in research.

A project proposal in research is a comprehensive document that outlines the research plan and methodology for a proposed study or project. It serves as a persuasive and structured pitch to convince funding agencies, academic institutions, or stakeholders about the significance, feasibility, and potential impact of the research. The primary goal of a research project proposal is to secure the necessary resources and support to conduct the study and bring more insights to the field.

How do you write a research proposal for a project?

Writing a research proposal for a project involves these essential steps:

• Identify the Research Problem: Define the research problem or question you aim to address, ensuring it is specific, relevant, and aligned with existing knowledge.
• Conduct a Literature Review: Review existing literature and studies related to your research topic to position your proposal within the broader academic context and demonstrate its novelty.
• State Research Objectives: Articulate clear and measurable research objectives, outlining what you intend to achieve through your project.
• Develop a Research Methodology: Describe the research design, data collection methods, analysis techniques, and ethical considerations you will follow in conducting your study.
• Discuss Anticipated Outcomes: Present expected outcomes and potential contributions your research will make to the field, emphasizing its significance.
• Create a Realistic Timeline: Outline a well-structured timeline with milestones that indicate the stages of your research project and its estimated duration.
• Craft a Budget: Provide a detailed budget that outlines the financial requirements of your research.
• Edit and Proofread: Review your proposal for clarity, coherence, and consistency, ensuring it adheres to specific guidelines or requirements set by the funding agency or institution.

What are the elements of the research proposal?

• Title: A clear and concise title that reflects the research topic and captures the essence of the study.
• Abstract: A proposal summary providing an overview of the research problem, objectives, methods, and anticipated outcomes.
• Introduction: An introduction to the research problem, its significance, and the context in which it will be conducted.
• Literature Review: A comprehensive review of existing literature and studies related to the research topic, showcasing the research gap and the relevance of the proposed study.
• Research Objectives: Measurable research objectives that are stated in a clear manner and outline what the study aims to achieve.
• Methodology: A detailed description of the research design, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations.
• Expected Outcomes: A discussion of the potential outcomes and contributions of the research.
• Timeline: A realistic timeline that outlines the stages of the research project.
• Budget: A well-structured budget that outlines the financial requirements for the research, including personnel, equipment, materials, and other expenses.
• References: A list of all the sources cited throughout the proposal, following the appropriate citation style.
• Appendices: Additional materials, such as charts, graphs, or supplementary information, support the proposal and provide further context.

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17 Research Proposal Examples

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

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

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

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

Watch my Guide: How to Write a Research Proposal

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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.

Chris Drew (PhD)

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

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 5 Top Tips for Succeeding at University
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• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 100 Consumer Goods Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 30 Globalization Pros and Cons

8 thoughts on “17 Research Proposal Examples”

Very excellent research proposals

very helpful

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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

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• Knowledge Base
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• How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

Published on 30 October 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on 13 June 2023.

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

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

Introduction

Literature review.

• Research design

Reference list

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

Table of contents

Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, frequently asked questions.

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

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

Research proposal length

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

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

Download our research proposal template

Prevent plagiarism, run a free check.

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

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

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

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

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

Your introduction should:

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

To guide your introduction , include information about:

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

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

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

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

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

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

For example, your results might have implications for:

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

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

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

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

Download our research schedule template

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

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

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

To determine your budget, think about:

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

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

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

I will compare …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the ‘Cite this Scribbr article’ button to automatically add the citation to our free Reference Generator.

McCombes, S. & George, T. (2023, June 13). How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates. Scribbr. Retrieved 25 March 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/the-research-process/research-proposal-explained/

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17 Free Project Proposal Templates

By Kate Eby | November 24, 2017

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In this article, we’ve researched and compiled the best project proposal templates, ranging from software and consulting proposals to construction and engineering, so you can get the support and approval needed to hit the ground running on your next project plan . 

Included on this page, you’ll find a simple project proposal template , IT project proposal template , research project proposal template , and more, free to download in Excel, Word, PDF, and Google Docs formats. Plus, we'll uncover what to include in a project proposal .

General Project Proposal Templates

Simple project proposal template.

Download Simple Project Proposal Template

Google Docs  |  Excel  |  PDF

This simple template breaks the proposal into clearly delineated sections, providing an organized layout that is easy-to-use and read. You can use this template for a wide range of proposal types, including school projects. Edit the template as needed to increase or reduce the number of sections. Since this is a Google Docs template, you can quickly download and print the document or share it with others via your Google Drive account.

One-Page Project Proposal Template

Download One-Page Project Proposal Template

PDF  |  Word

With this template, you can limit your project proposal to a single page, focusing on key details such as objectives, measurements, timeline, and a budget overview. This template can help project managers compile and organize critical information into a concise document. A brief project proposal will make a strong impact and set the stage for in-depth planning.

Generic Project Proposal Template - Word

Download Generic Project Proposal Template - Word

Use this generic project proposal to create a customized template. Complete the basic outline with essential proposal elements, including the problem statement, goals, scope of the project, and itemized timeline and expenses. Once you have adjusted the proposal to meet your project needs and company standards, you can reuse the template for future projects, saving time, energy, and cost.

Business Project Proposal Template - Word

Download Business Project Proposal Template - Word

This business project proposal template includes fields at the top for entering project details; sections for listing objectives, justification for and impact of carrying out the project, and resources required; plus a schedule timeline. Create a comprehensive proposal that identifies stakeholders, addresses potential risks, and presents a compelling argument for  project approval.

Freelance Job Proposal Template

Download Freelance Job Proposal Template

Freelancers can use this template to pitch their services to prospective clients. Describe what problem you will solve, how you will meet the client’s needs, and why they should hire you. The template covers deliverables, quantifiable objectives, a timeline with deadlines, and breakdown of project costs. You can also include terms and conditions to turn the template into a job proposal contract.

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Project Proposals by Product or Service

It project proposal template.

Download IT Project Proposal Template

Excel  |  Word

This IT project proposal provides room for listing important roles, such as project sponsor, owner, and manager, their general responsibilities, and the names of other stakeholders. It covers all of the typical elements for a project proposal, including space for technology requirements, security risks, hardware and software costs, and more.

Software Project Proposal Template - Word

Download Software Project Proposal Template

Word | Smartsheet

Craft a proposal for a software development project that includes an overview, key milestones, information on development and testing, and reporting methods. A table is provided for a thorough timeline of tasks to help accurately estimate project hours. If the proposal is for external use, you can include payment terms for prospective clients to review.

Mobile App Proposal Template

Download Mobile App Proposal Template

Excel  |  PDF

This template can serve as a professional pitch for mobile app design services. To stand out from the crowd and highlight relevant experience, attach examples of previous work to the proposal template. The information included in the proposal will depend on the specific project. Customize the template to address pertinent details - such as a timeline of design stages and itemized costs - while showcasing what you have to offer.

Project Management Proposal Template - Excel

Download Project Management Proposal Template - Excel

With this project management proposal template, you can describe the activities involved in different project phases, outline key deliverables, and list expectations. Adjust the proposal to suit the scale and type of project to be managed along with industry norms.

Engineering Project Proposal Template - Excel

Download Engineering Project Proposal Template - Excel

An engineering project proposal should have relevant background information, including the scope of the project and specific engineering tasks to be executed. This Excel template includes automatic calculations for adding costs. Use the  work schedule to show a timeline of project phases, from preliminary design through construction. If that work schedule doesn’t work for you, choose one of these free templates for Word and Excel.

Construction Proposal Template - Excel

Download Construction Proposal Template

This construction proposal template offers two sheets, one for providing contractor information, project scope, and agreement terms, and the other for listing the costs for labor and materials. The template calculates subtotals and total expenses, including tax, so that project costs are clear.

Marketing Proposal Template

Download Marketing Proposal Template

Google Docs  |  Excel  |  Word  |  PDF

Marketing plans mix data with a strategy to reach effective outcomes. Use this template to describe the goals, challenges and projected results of a marketing project. Depending on the project, tasks may include activities related to branding, competitive analysis, content development, and new market development. In addition to a project overview, include a detailed schedule with specific dates for project stages and campaign milestones.

Web Design Proposal Template

Download Web Design Proposal Template

From initial research to ongoing hosting and maintenance, this template can help you create a thorough web design proposal. Write a proposal for a website upgrade or pitch design services to an internal or external client. Clearly state the goals of the web design project in the proposal, including alignment with the vision of the company or organization.

Social Media Proposal Template

Download Social Media Proposal Template

Social media campaigns are a valuable part of business marketing, and proposals need to show how projects will accomplish specific goals, whether it’s reaching a broader audience, creating a brand presence on social networks, or boosting sales. This template follows a traditional format, outlining an executive summary, problem statement, objectives, tactics, and scheduling. We’ve also incorporated a budget section for estimating project costs.

Accounting Proposal Template - Excel

Download Accounting Proposal Template

Excel | Smartsheet

Use this template to pitch financial services such as accounting. This proposal could be for a specific project or ongoing services for a business or other organization. Include the terms of service, a breakdown of costs, important goals, and a compelling solution for the client’s financial needs.

Consulting Project Proposal Template - Word

Download Consulting Project Proposal Template - Word

Consultants can use this template to offer services for a specific project and make a strong case for getting hired. As with other project proposals, focus on how you will help a company resolve specific issues or seize opportunities. List the activities you will undertake, specific deliverables, and a timetable for project tasks. Contract terms can also be included to secure an agreement with clients.

Research Proposal Templates

Research project proposal template - word.

Download Research Project Proposal Template - Word

Research proposals, whether for academic, scientific, or other purposes, are slightly different from the typical business project proposal. In addition to a project overview and background, the template also includes a literature review section to support the significance of a proposed project by identifying gaps in the available literature that the project would address. Additionally, the research design and method section enables you to outline exactly how the research project will be set up and how the results will be interpreted. A list of references may be included to show all sources cited in the proposal.

What to Include in a Project Proposal

Project proposals vary depending on the type of project and organization, and whether the proposal is for internal or external use. However, there are some common details to include to justify the project and gain approval. Here are some typical sections in a project proposal and how to use them:

• Executive Summary: Briefly provide sponsors with an overview of the project. The aim is to offer a compelling pitch so that sponsors are already convinced the project is a good idea after reading the summary. The rest of the proposal offers greater detail about the key points in the executive summary.
• Background: Use background information to provide context, including company history, details about the problem or opportunity the project addresses, and the proposed solution.
• Objectives: Include measurable goals as well as a broader vision for supporting business objectives. 
• Methodology: Describe the project approach and organization along with specific activities and deliverables that will move it toward its goal. This section may include a project schedule with a concrete timeline showing milestones and deadlines.
• Resources: Include any resources necessary to complete a project, such as human resources (including hiring new staff), tools and equipment, time allocated for computer use or other tasks, and the management structure.
• Budget: Show all project costs in the budget, listing each item separately in a table or spreadsheet along with its associated cost. You may also need to include information to justify budget costs or provide further explanation.
• Measurement and Reporting: How will you define and measure success? Explain how you’ll measure and report progress, including the frequency that sponsors will receive status reports.
• Risks: Note potential risks along with the probability of occurrence, potential impact, and plans for mitigating them if they do occur. You may include a detailed risk management plan along with a list of risks and methods for controlling them.
• Appendix: In the appendix, list any separate documents that are attached to support the proposal.

Additionally, you may define and assign key roles to specific people. A proposal will also typically have a section for authorization to document approval. Once the project is approved, you can create a project charter and comprehensive plan.

Project Proposal Tips

The first step for a project manager, or whoever is writing the project proposal, is to carry out detailed research, which may include analyzing previous projects and gathering information to support the project’s efficacy, objectives, and business value. It is important to involve stakeholders and decision makers early in the process to support buy in. Soliciting feedback in face-to-face meetings, and incorporating that feedback into the proposal, can help limit the changes needed and save time in the long run. 

When it comes to actually writing the proposal, start by emphasizing the problem you’re addressing. The proposal needs to show measurable benefits such as deliverables for a company or organization to be persuasive. Overall, the proposal should support an organization’s vision and long-term objectives. Whether you’re writing a lengthy research proposal or submitting a one-page proposal template, use clear, concise language so that readers can easily identify the information they need.

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Research Proposal Template

Visually map out the plan for your next proposal

This proposal template is the perfect way to start your next research project. To begin, you should start by documenting the most important objectives. You can also add information around research scope, key publications, and anything else that might be useful to the project.

• Set the vision & strategy
• Organize requirements
• Share with your colleagues
• Gather feedback
• The perfect start for every proposal

Collect everything in one place

Milanote is the visual way to collect everything that powers your creative work. Simple text editing & task management helps you organize your thoughts and plans. Upload images, video, files and more.

Organize visually

Milanote's flexible drag and drop interface lets you arrange things in whatever way makes sense to you. Break out of linear documents and see your research, ideas and plans side-by-side.

Collaborate with your team

Milanote boards can be a private place to think, or a shared workspace for collaboration—you're in total control of who sees what. Instantly see your team's changes, leave comments, and never miss a thing with smart notifications and alerts.

Plan all aspects of your project in one place.

Set the visual direction for your next creative project.

Set the project goals & deliverables.

Run an online brainstorming session with your team.

Organize your class notes in one place.

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How to Write a Project Proposal (Examples & Template Included)

Table of Contents

What is a project proposal, types of project proposals, project proposal vs. project charter, project proposal vs. business case, project proposal vs. project plan, project proposal outline, how to write a project proposal, project proposal example, project proposal tips.

• ProjectManager & Project Proposals

A project proposal is a project management document that’s used to define the objectives and requirements of a project. It helps organizations and external project stakeholders agree on an initial project planning framework.

The main purpose of a project proposal is to get buy-in from decision-makers. That’s why a project proposal outlines your project’s core value proposition; it sells value to both internal and external project stakeholders. The intent of the proposal is to grab the attention of stakeholders and project sponsors. Then, the next step is getting them excited about the project summary.

Getting into the heads of the audience for which you’re writing the project proposal is vital: you need to think like the project’s stakeholders to deliver a proposal that meets their needs.

We’ve created a free project proposal template for Word to help structure documents, so you don’t have to remember the process each time.

Get your free

Project Proposal Template

Use this free Project Proposal Template for Word to manage your projects better.

In terms of types of project proposals, you can have one that’s formally solicited, informally solicited or a combination. There can also be renewal and supplemental proposals. Here’s a brief description of each of them.

• Solicited project proposal: This is sent as a response to a request for proposal (RFP) . Here, you’ll need to adhere to the RFP guidelines of the project owner.
• Unsolicited project proposal: You can send project proposals without having received a request for a proposal. This can happen in open bids for construction projects , where a project owner receives unsolicited project proposals from many contractors.
• Informal project proposal: This type of project proposal is created when a client asks for an informal proposal without an RFP.
• Renewal project proposal: You can use a renewal project proposal when you’re reaching out to past customers. The advantage is that you can highlight past positive results and future benefits.
• Continuation project proposal: A continuation project proposal is sent to investors and stakeholders to communicate project progress.
• Supplemental project proposal: This proposal is sent to investors to ask for additional resources during the project execution phase.

A project proposal is a detailed project document that’s used to convince the project sponsor that the project being proposed is worth the time, money and effort to deliver it. This is done by showing how the project will address a business problem or opportunity. It also outlines the work that will be done and how it will be done.

A project charter can seem like the same thing as a project proposal as it also defines the project in a document. It identifies the project objectives, scope, goals, stakeholders and team. But it’s done after the project has been agreed upon by all stakeholders and the project has been accepted. The project charter authorizes the project and documents its requirements to meet stakeholders’ needs.

A business case is used to explain why the proposed project is justified. It shows that the project is worth the investment of time and money. It’s more commonly used in larger companies in the decision-making process when prioritizing one project over another.

The business case answers the questions: what is the project, why should it be taken up, who will be involved and how much will it cost? It’s therefore related to a project proposal, but the project proposal comes before the business case and is usually part of the larger proposal.

Again, the project proposal and the project plan in this case are very similar documents. It’s understandable that there would be some confusion between these two project terms. They both show how the project will be run and what the results will be. However, they’re not the same.

The project proposal is a document that aims to get a project approved and funded. It’s used to convince stakeholders of the viability of the project and their investment. The project plan, on the other hand, is made during the planning phase of the project, once it’s been approved. It’s a detailed outline of how the project will be implemented, including schedule, budget, resources and more.

All the elements in the above project proposal outline are present in our template. This free project proposal template for Word will provide you with everything you need to write an excellent project proposal. It will help you with the executive summary, project process, deliverables, costs—even terms and conditions. Download your free template today.

There are several key operational and strategic questions to consider, including:

• Executive summary: This is the elevator pitch that outlines the project being proposed and why it makes business sense. While it also touches on the information that’ll follow in the project proposal, the executive summary should be brief and to the point.
• Project background: This is another short part of the proposal, usually only one page, which explains the problem you’ll solve or the opportunity you’re taking advantage of with the proposed project. Also, provide a short history of the business to put the company in context to the project and why it’s a good fit.
• Project vision & success criteria: State the goal of the project and how it aligns with the goals of the company. Be specific. Also, note the metrics used to measure the success of the project.
• Potential risks and mitigation strategies: There are always risks. Detail them here and what strategies you’ll employ to mitigate any negative impact as well as take advantage of any positive risk.
• Project scope & deliverables: Define the project scope, which is all the work that has to be done and how it will be done. Also, detail the various deliverables that the project will have.
• Set SMART goals: When setting goals, be SMART. That’s an acronym for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. All your goals would be defined by those five things.
• Project approach: Define the approach you’ll use for the contract. There are several different types of contracts used in construction , for example, such as lump sum, cost plus, time and materials, etc. This is also a good place to describe the delivery method you’ll use.
• Expected benefits: Outline the benefits that will come from the successful completion of the project.
• Project resource requirements: List the resources, such as labor, materials, equipment, etc., that you’ll need to execute the project if approved.
• Project costs & budget: Detail all the costs, including resources, that’ll be required to complete the project and set up a budget to show how those costs will be spent over the course of the project.
• Project timeline: Lay out the project timeline , which shows the project from start to finish, including the duration of each phase and the tasks within it, milestones, etc.

In addition to these elements, it’s advisable to use a cover letter, which is a one-page document that helps you introduce your project proposal and grab the attention of potential clients and stakeholders.

To make the best proposal possible, you’ll want to be thorough and hit on all the points we’ve listed above. Here’s a step-by-step guide to writing a persuasive priority proposal.

1. Write an Executive Summary

The executive summary provides a quick overview of the main elements of your project proposal, such as your project background, project objectives and project deliverables, among other things. The goal is to capture the attention of your audience and get them excited about the project you’re proposing. It’s essentially the “elevator pitch” for the project life cycle. It should be short and to the point.

The executive summary should be descriptive and paint a picture of what project success looks like for the client. Most importantly, it should motivate the project client; after all, the goal is getting them to sign on the dotted line to get the project moving!

2. Provide a Project Background

The project background is a one-page section of your project proposal that explains the problem that your project will solve. You should explain when this issue started, its current state and how your project will be the ideal solution.

• Historic data: The history section outlines previously successful projects and those that could have run more smoothly. By doing so, this section establishes precedents and how the next project can be more effective using information from previous projects.
• Solution: The solution section addresses how your project will solve the client’s problem. Accordingly, this section includes any project management techniques , skills and procedures your team will use to work efficiently.

3. Establish a Project Vision & Success Criteria

You’ll need to define your project vision. This is best done with a vision statement, which acts as the north star for your project. It’s not specific as much as it’s a way to describe the impact your company plans to make with the project.

It’s also important to set up success criteria to show that the project is in fact doing what it’s proposed to do. Three obvious project success criteria are the triple constraint of cost, scope and time. But you’ll need to set up a way to measure these metrics and respond to them if they’re not meeting your plan.

4. Identify Potential Risks and Mitigation Strategies

To reduce the impact of risk in your project, you need to identify what those risks might be and develop a plan to mitigate them . List all the risks, prioritize them, describe what you’ll do to mitigate or take advantage of them and who on the team is responsible for keeping an eye out for them and resolving them.

5. Define Your Project Scope and Project Deliverables

The project scope refers to all the work that’ll be executed. It defines the work items, work packages and deliverables that’ll be delivered during the execution phase of your project life cycle. It’s important to use a work breakdown structure (WBS) to define your tasks and subtasks and prioritize them.

6. Set SMART Goals for Your Project Proposal

The best mindset when developing goals and objectives for your project proposal is to use the SMART system :

• Specific – Make sure your goals and objectives are clear, concise and specific to the task at hand.
• Measurable – Ensure your goals and objectives are measurable so it’s obvious to see when things are on track and going well, and conversely, when things are off track and issues need to be addressed. Measurable goals make it easy to develop the milestones you’ll use to track the progress of the project and identify a reasonable date for completion and/or closure.
• Attainable – It’s important every project has a “reach” goal. Hitting this goal would mean an outstanding project that extends above and beyond expectations. However, it’s important that the project’s core goal is attainable, so morale stays high and the job gets done with time and resources to spare.
• Relevant – Make sure all of your goals are directly relevant to the project and address the scope within which you’re working.
• Time-Based – Timelines and specific dates should be at the core of all goals and objectives. This helps keep the project on track and ensures all project team members can manage the work that’s ahead of them.

7. Explain What’s Your Project Approach

Your project approach defines the project management methodology , tools and governance for your project. In simple terms, it allows project managers to explain to stakeholders how the project will be planned, executed and controlled successfully.

8. Outline The Expected Benefits of Your Project Proposal

If you want to convince internal stakeholders and external investors, you’ll need to show them the financial benefits that your project could bring to their organization. You can use cost-benefit analysis and projected financial statements to demonstrate why your project is profitable.

9. Identify Project Resource Requirements

Project resources are critical for the execution of your project. The project proposal briefly describes what resources are needed and how they’ll be used. Later, during the planning phase, you’ll need to create a resource management plan that’ll be an important element of your project plan. Project requirements are the items, materials and resources needed for the project. This section should cover both internal and external needs.

10. Estimate Project Costs and Project Budget

All the resources that you’ll need for your project have a price tag. That’s why you need to estimate those costs and create a project budget . The project budget needs to cover all your project expenses, and as a project manager, you’ll need to make sure that you adhere to the budget.

11. Define a Project Timeline

Once you’ve defined your project scope, you’ll need to estimate the duration of each task to create a project timeline. Later during the project planning phase , you’ll need to create a schedule baseline, which estimates the total length of your project. Once the project starts, you’ll compare your actual project schedule to the schedule baseline to monitor progress.

Now let’s explore some project proposal examples to get a better understanding of how a project proposal would work in the real world. For this example, let’s imagine a city that’s about to build a rapid transit system. The city government has the funds to invest but lacks the technical expertise and resources that are needed to build it, so it issues a request for proposal (RFP) document and sends it to potential builders.

Then, the construction companies that are interested in executing this rapid transit project will prepare a project proposal for the city government. Here are some of the key elements they should include.

• Project background: The construction firm will provide an explanation of the challenges that the project presents from a technical perspective, along with historical data from similar projects that have been completed successfully by the company.
• Project vision & success criteria: Write a vision statement and explain how you’ll track the triple constraint to ensure the successful delivery of the project.
• Potential risks and mitigation strategies: List all risks and how they’ll be mitigated, and be sure to prioritize them.
• Project scope & deliverables: The work that’ll be done is outlined in the scope, including all the deliverables that’ll be completed over the life cycle of the project.
• Set SMART goals: Use the SMART technique to define your project goals by whether they’re specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound.
• Project approach: Define the methodology that the project manager will employ to manage the project. Also, figure out what type of contract will be used to define the project.
• Expected benefits: Show how the project will deliver advantages to the company and define what these benefits are in a quantifiable way.
• Project resource requirements: List all the resources, such as labor, materials, equipment, etc., needed to execute the project.
• Project costs & budget: Estimate the cost of the project and lay that out in a project budget that covers everything from start to finish.
• Project timeline: Outline the project schedule, including phases, milestones and task duration on a visual timeline.

Whatever project proposal you’re working on, there are a few tips that apply as best practices for all. While above we suggested a project proposal template that would have a table of contents, meaning it would be many pages long, the best-case scenario is keeping the proposal to one or two pages max. Remember, you’re trying to win over stakeholders, not bore them.

Speaking of project stakeholders , do the research. You want to address the right ones. There’s no point in doing all the work necessary to write a great proposal only to have it directed to the wrong target audience. Whoever is going to read it, though, should be able to comprehend the proposal. Keep the language simple and direct.

When it comes to writing, get a professional. Even a business document like a project proposal, business case or executive summary will suffer if it’s poorly constructed or has typos. If you don’t want to hire a professional business writer, make sure you get someone on your project team to copy, edit and proof the document. The more eyes on it, the less likely mistakes will make it to the final edition.

While you want to keep the proposal short and sweet, it helps to sweeten the pot by adding customer testimonials to the attachments. Nothing sells a project plan better than a customer base looking for your product or service.

ProjectManager & Project Proposals

ProjectManager allows you to plan proposals within our software. You can update tasks for the project proposal to signify where things stand and what’s left to be done. The columns allow you to organize your proposal by section, creating a work breakdown structure (WBS) of sorts.

When building a project proposal, it’s vital to remember your target audience. Your audience includes those who are excited about the project, and see completion as a gain for their organization. Conversely, others in your audience will see the project as a pain and something to which they aren’t looking forward. To keep both parties satisfied, it’s essential to keep language factual and concise.

Our online kanban boards help you think through that language and collaborate on it effectively with other team members, if necessary. Each card shows the percentage completed so everyone in the project management team is aware of the work done and what’s left to be done.

As you can see from the kanban board above, work has begun on tasks such as product documentation and design. Tasks regarding stakeholder feedback, ideation, market research and more have been completed, and there’s a good start on the engineering drawings, 3D rendering, supply chain sourcing and translation services.

A PDF is then attached to the card, and everyone added to the task receives an email notifying them of the change. This same process can be used throughout the life-cycle of the project to keep the team updated, collaborating, and producing a first-class project proposal. In addition to kanban boards, you can also use other project management tools such as Gantt charts , project dashboards, task lists and project calendars to plan, schedule and track your projects.

Project proposals are just the first step in the project planning process. Once your project is approved, you’ll have to solidify the plan, allocate and manage resources, monitor the project, and finally hand in your deliverables. This process requires a flexible, dynamic and robust project management software package. ProjectManager is online project management software that helps all your team members collaborate and manage this process in real-time. Try our award-winning software with this free 30-day trial .

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Soil mechanics research project proposal presentation, free google slides theme and powerpoint template.

Download the "Soil Mechanics Research Project Proposal" presentation for PowerPoint or Google Slides. A well-crafted proposal can be the key factor in determining the success of your project. It's an opportunity to showcase your ideas, objectives, and plans in a clear and concise manner, and to convince others to invest their time, resources, and support in your vision. Think of it as your chance to make a case for your project and to motivate others to join you on your journey. Well, that journey begins here, with our editable template for Google Slides and PowerPoint presentations. Download it and start working on your proposal.

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