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Writing a Research Proposal: A Professional Guide

College students usually have to complete a research paper or a thesis before the completion of their studies. Before undertaking a research paper, most usually have to develop a research proposal for an intended study.

Nonetheless, most students do not fully understand and appreciate the essence of a research proposal. That said, it is imperative to note that an excellent research proposal is as critical as the final research paper. It often translates into an excellent research paper. The vice versa is also true!

But, What is a Research Proposal and Why is It Important?

A research proposal is a coherent and concise summary of the intended research. It portrays one’s desired area of study, the existing literature in the focus area, and shortcoming in the available knowledge. It also identifies the gap in knowledge that your study aims to fill and how one intends to undertake the proposed research.

A research proposal convinces interested stakeholders such as your instructor or grantors that your research is crucial and worthwhile.

The structure of a research proposal is not definitive but depends on:

  • Its purpose
  • Discipline
  • Instructions given
  • Size of the proposal

However, the simplest research proposal should meet the following at the minimum:

  • Clear and concise problem identification
  • A brief exploration of previous literature and proposed methodology to explore the problem involved
  • Realistic timeline and expenses

Other issues that a research proposal can cover include ethical issues and their solutions and the likely results.

Structure of a Comprehensive Research Proposal

Title

This is a descriptive and concise phrase indicating your proposed study’s topic.

Abstract

This is a brief summary of 150-300 words. It should cover the main parts of the research proposal. These parts include:

  • Research question
  • Rationale
  • Methodology
  • Preliminary research (if included)
Introduction

This pitches the study by giving background information on the area under which it falls. It also contains the research problem derived from the background information. This can also be captured under research aims or objectives.

Literature Review

This presents a precise review of the current state of research in your area of interest. It involves highlighting what other scholars have undertaken and their contributions to your area of focus. It also shows your knowledge in the area as well as assures stakeholders that you are not ‘reinventing the wheel’.

Moreover, the literature review assures interested stakeholders of your ability to critically evaluate relevant information and justify the need for your research by showcasing its likely substantial and significant contribution to the existing literature.

Methodology

This section highlights the method you will use to explore your research problem. It justifies your chosen methodology and why it applies to your area of focus. Some of the aspects highlighted in this section include:

  • Research design
  • Sample population and its selection criteria
  • Data collection and analysis methods

The research methodology should attain professional consistency, rigor, applicability, and neutrality of scholarly writing.  It may also include preliminary research to highlight some of the research’s expected results.

Ethical Considerations

This section stipulates some of the expected ethical issues and how they will be addressed during the research. It is especially crucial in the case of medical research proposals as they often face diverse ethical and moral issues during data collection. The proposed study should stipulate a moral framework that will be followed to ensure that participants’ rights are not violated.

Budget and Research Timeline

This section highlights the projected time for the research. It also provides an estimate of the potential expenses of the research process.

Citations

This is a list of all the sources used in writing your proposal as is the expectation of all academic papers.

Appendices

This section provides information or documents supporting the proposal but which cannot be included in its body as it may compromise on its coherency and logical flow. Such may include:

  • Questionnaires
  • Consent forms
  • Measurement tools

Wrapping it All Up

Generally, a perfect proposal should emphasize its likelihood to positively influence your area of focus as well as other disciplines in some cases. It should also prove its applicability and feasibility.

Additionally, a research proposal should be clear, concise, factual, and written in simple but professional language. Future tense should also be used while writing a research proposal.

Need Help with Your Research Proposal Assignment?

Not sure how to structure your proposal? Having trouble determining the best methodology for your research paper? Not sure what tense to use when writing a proposal?

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