A proposal needs a question narrow enough to investigate and important enough to explain. Start with the problem, then justify the evidence and method that could answer it.
A practical starting point
Test access to data before promising a design. A proposal is stronger when it acknowledges a practical constraint and explains a feasible response.
Understand the task
A research proposal makes a case for a study that can actually be carried out. Define a focused problem, explain the gap in existing work and set a question that your method can answer. A broad area of interest is a starting point, not yet a research question.
Develop the reasoning
Use the literature to show both what is known and what needs investigation. Organise the discussion around debates or findings rather than writing one paragraph for every source. Explain how the proposed study relates to those discussions.
Use evidence carefully
Connect the question to data, sampling and analysis. Identify what access you need, how participants or materials will be selected and how the results will be interpreted. Consider consent, confidentiality and approval requirements before collecting data.
Review the finished work
Include a realistic schedule with reading, approval, collection, analysis and writing. Identify the main risk to completion and a workable alternative. Check the proposal against your department’s required headings and word limit.
Before you submit
- Check the brief and marking criteria for this task.
- Confirm the source and date of each factual claim.
- Review the argument before making the final language checks.
- Keep the final file and any submission confirmation.
Support for UK students
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