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151+ Research Proposal Topics [Updated 2024]

Research Proposal Topics

Crafting a compelling research proposal begins with selecting the right topic—a task that demands careful consideration and a thoughtful approach. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the intricacies of choosing research proposal topics, exploring the importance of a well-defined focus and guiding you through the steps to create a robust proposal.

How to Select Research Proposal Topics?

Table of Contents

Selecting research proposal topics is a crucial step in the research process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose a compelling and impactful research topic:

  • Self-reflection:
  • Identify your personal interests, passions, and curiosities.
  • Consider topics that resonate with you on a deep level.
  • Academic and Professional Interests:
  • Reflect on subjects that captivated you during coursework or work experience.
  • Assess the relevance of these interests to your academic or career goals.
  • Current Issues and Trends:
  • Stay informed about contemporary challenges and emerging trends in your field.
  • Choose a topic that addresses current issues for greater relevance and impact.
  • Literature Review:
  • Conduct a thorough review of existing research in your chosen field.
  • Identify gaps and limitations in the current body of knowledge.
  • Formulate Clear Research Questions:
  • Develop clear and concise research questions based on the gaps identified.
  • Ensure your questions are feasible and align with the chosen topic.
  • Choose a Methodology:
  • Select an appropriate research methodology (experimental, qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).
  • Justify your choice and discuss data collection techniques.
  • Significance and Contribution:
  • Articulate the relevance of your proposed research.
  • Highlight the potential contributions your work can make to the field.
  • Research Design and Plan:
  • Outline the specifics of your research design.
  • Create a realistic timeline, allocating resources and budget effectively.
  • Address Challenges and Limitations:
  • Acknowledge potential challenges and limitations.
  • Discuss strategies to mitigate challenges and be transparent about constraints.
  • Conclusion:
  • Summarize key points of your research proposal.
  • Emphasize the importance of the chosen topic and encourage feedback.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your research proposal topic is not only engaging but also has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to your field of study.

151+ Research Proposal Topics: Category Wise

Science and technology.

  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Market Trends
  • Advancements in Renewable Energy Technologies
  • Exploring the Potential of CRISPR Technology in Genetic Engineering
  • Cybersecurity Measures for Critical Infrastructure Protection
  • The Role of Blockchain in Supply Chain Management
  • Augmented Reality in Education: Enhancing Learning Experiences
  • Quantum Computing: Current Status and Future Implications
  • Sustainable Technologies for Environmental Conservation
  • Smart Cities: Integrating Technology for Urban Development
  • Robotics in Healthcare: Applications and Ethical Considerations

Health and Medicine

  • Precision Medicine: Customizing Healthcare Based on Genetic Factors
  • The Impact of Telemedicine on Patient Care
  • Mental Health Stigma: Strategies for Reduction and Education
  • Vaccination Hesitancy: Understanding Causes and Developing Interventions
  • Aging Population and Healthcare Challenges
  • Bioinformatics and Personalized Cancer Therapies
  • The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Diagnosing Medical Conditions
  • Emerging Infectious Diseases: Preparedness and Response Strategies
  • Nutrition Education in Schools: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles
  • Healthcare Disparities: Addressing and Eliminating Gaps in Access

Social Sciences

  • Social Media and its Influence on Political Discourse
  • Impact of Social Isolation on Mental Health in Elderly Populations
  • Cultural Competence in Education: Training and Implementation
  • The Role of Gender Stereotypes in Career Choices
  • Cyberbullying: Prevention and Intervention Strategies
  • The Effects of Immigration Policies on Migrant Communities
  • Restorative Justice in Criminal Justice Systems
  • Examining the Relationship Between Social Media Use and Self-Esteem
  • Intersectionality in Feminist Movements: Challenges and Opportunities
  • Community Policing: Building Trust between Law Enforcement and Communities
  • E-Learning Platforms: Effectiveness and Challenges
  • Inquiry-Based Learning: Enhancing Critical Thinking Skills
  • Inclusive Education Practices: Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners
  • The Impact of Standardized Testing on Educational Equity
  • School Safety Measures: Strategies for Prevention and Response
  • Teacher Professional Development: Models and Effectiveness
  • Online Education Accessibility for Students with Disabilities
  • Gamification in Education: Engaging Students in Learning
  • Bilingual Education: Benefits and Challenges
  • STEM Education Initiatives: Encouraging Interest in Science and Technology

Business and Economics

  • Sustainable Business Practices: Balancing Profit and Environmental Impact
  • Corporate Social Responsibility in Multinational Corporations
  • Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Business Operations
  • Economic Consequences of Global Health Crises
  • Digital Marketing Trends and Consumer Behavior
  • Financial Literacy Education: Bridging the Gap
  • Small Business Sustainability: Challenges and Strategies
  • The Gig Economy: Implications for Workers and Employers
  • Supply Chain Resilience in the Face of Global Disruptions
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Emerging Markets

Environment and Sustainability

  • Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Coastal Communities
  • Biodiversity Conservation in Urban Environments
  • Circular Economy Models: Reducing Waste and Promoting Sustainability
  • Water Scarcity: Technological Solutions and Policy Measures
  • Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Ecosystems
  • Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Balancing Production and Conservation
  • Environmental Education in Schools: Fostering Eco-Consciousness
  • Green Building Technologies: Enhancing Energy Efficiency
  • Ecotourism: Balancing Conservation and Economic Development
  • The Role of International Agreements in Addressing Environmental Issues

Psychology and Behavior

  • The Influence of Social Media on Body Image and Self-Esteem
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety and Depression
  • Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
  • Positive Psychology Interventions: Enhancing Well-Being
  • Sleep Hygiene and its Impact on Mental Health
  • The Psychology of Procrastination: Causes and Interventions
  • Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace: Benefits and Training
  • The Impact of Parenting Styles on Child Development
  • Cross-Cultural Psychology: Understanding Cultural Influences on Behavior
  • The Role of Music in Emotional Regulation and Stress Reduction

Political Science and International Relations

  • The Rise of Populism: Causes and Consequences
  • Cyber Warfare and International Security
  • Human Rights Violations in Conflict Zones: Challenges and Solutions
  • The Role of International Organizations in Global Governance
  • Political Polarization: Understanding Divisive Trends
  • Nuclear Proliferation and Arms Control Agreements
  • Comparative Analysis of Electoral Systems
  • Immigration Policies and Social Cohesion
  • Global Health Diplomacy: Collaborative Approaches to Health Challenges
  • The Impact of Disinformation on Democratic Processes

History and Cultural Studies

  • Reevaluating Historical Narratives: Perspectives and Interpretations
  • Cultural Impact of Globalization: Trends and Reactions
  • Indigenous Rights and Representation in Historical Context
  • History of Scientific Discoveries and their Societal Impact
  • Archaeological Excavations: Uncovering Lost Civilizations
  • Cultural Appropriation: Examining Controversies and Contexts
  • The Role of Women in Historical Movements
  • Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Challenges and Innovations
  • Historical Trauma and its Contemporary Repercussions
  • Impact of Colonialism on Contemporary Societies

Communication and Media Studies

  • Influence of Social Media on Political Participation
  • Media Representation of Marginalized Groups
  • Fake News and Misinformation: Identifying and Combating Trends
  • The Evolution of Print Media in the Digital Age
  • Media Literacy Education: Navigating Information in the Digital Era
  • Celebrity Culture and its Impact on Society
  • The Role of Public Relations in Shaping Organizational Image
  • Cross-Cultural Communication in Global Business
  • Podcasting as an Emerging Medium of Communication
  • Advertising and Consumer Behavior: Analyzing Persuasion Techniques

Philosophy and Ethics

  • Ethical Considerations in Artificial Intelligence Research
  • Bioethics in Medical Decision-Making
  • Existentialism and its Relevance in Contemporary Society
  • Animal Rights and Ethical Treatment in Scientific Research
  • Environmental Ethics: Balancing Human Needs and Ecological Sustainability
  • The Ethics of Genetic Engineering and Cloning
  • Virtue Ethics in Professional Decision-Making
  • Technology and Privacy: Ethical Dilemmas in the Digital Age
  • Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Warfare
  • Utilitarianism and its Application in Ethical Decision-Making

Education Policy and Administration

  • School Voucher Programs: Impact on Educational Equity
  • Teacher Evaluation Systems: Effectiveness and Fairness
  • Inclusive Leadership in Educational Institutions
  • Early Childhood Education: Policy and Implementation
  • Standardized Testing: Implications for Educational Policy
  • Education Funding Models: Challenges and Solutions
  • School Choice and its Impact on Student Achievement
  • Educational Technology Integration in Classroom Settings
  • Community Engagement in School Decision-Making
  • The Role of Educational Leaders in Fostering Inclusive Schools

Economics and Development Studies

  • Microfinance and Poverty Alleviation Strategies
  • Impact of Global Trade Policies on Developing Economies
  • Economic Empowerment of Women in Developing Countries
  • Sustainable Development Goals: Progress and Challenges
  • Rural-Urban Migration: Economic and Social Impacts
  • Financial Inclusion: Strategies for Bridging the Gap
  • Foreign Aid Effectiveness: Assessing Outcomes
  • Technology Transfer and Innovation in Developing Nations
  • Income Inequality: Causes and Policy Solutions
  • The Role of Microenterprise in Local Economic Development

Criminal Justice and Law

  • Restorative Justice: Implementation and Impact on Recidivism
  • Police Body Cameras: Efficacy and Ethical Considerations
  • Cybercrime Laws and Challenges in the Digital Age
  • Juvenile Justice Reform: Strategies for Rehabilitation
  • Bail Reform: Addressing Inequities in Pretrial Detention
  • Criminal Profiling: Validity and Ethical Concerns
  • Drug Policy Reform: Exploring Alternatives to Criminalization
  • The Impact of Hate Crime Legislation on Social Cohesion
  • Eyewitness Testimony Reliability: Challenges and Improvements
  • International Criminal Court: Effectiveness and Challenges

Public Health and Epidemiology

  • Disease Surveillance Systems: Enhancing Early Detection
  • Health Inequalities: Social Determinants and Interventions
  • Maternal and Child Health Interventions in Developing Countries
  • Impact of Health Education on Preventive Behaviors
  • Access to Healthcare Services in Rural Areas
  • Lifestyle Interventions for Chronic Disease Prevention
  • Community-Based Participatory Research in Public Health
  • Mental Health Interventions in School Settings
  • The Role of Public Health in Pandemic Preparedness and Response

Computer Science

  • Explainable Artificial Intelligence: Bridging the Gap Between Performance and Interpretability
  • The Role of Quantum Computing in Revolutionizing Cryptography
  • Ethical Considerations in the Development of Autonomous Vehicles
  • Cybersecurity Challenges in the Internet of Things (IoT) Ecosystem
  • Human-Computer Interaction: Enhancing User Experience in Virtual Reality Environments

How to Compose a Research Proposal?

Composing a research proposal is a systematic process that involves careful planning, organization, and clear articulation of your research idea. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to compose a research proposal:

  • Title: 
  • Create a clear and concise title that reflects the essence of your research.
  • Introduction:
  • Provide background information on the research topic.
  • Clearly state the research problem or question.
  • Justify the importance and relevance of your research.
  • Summarize relevant existing literature.
  • Identify gaps, limitations, and areas for further exploration.
  • Establish a theoretical framework for your study.
  • Research Questions or Hypotheses:
  • Formulate clear and specific research questions or hypotheses.
  • Ensure they align with the research problem and are feasible.
  • Objectives or Aims:
  • Outline the specific goals of your research.
  • Clearly state what you aim to achieve with your study.
  • Methodology:
  • Describe the research design and justify your choice.
  • Detail the data collection methods and tools you plan to use.
  • Address ethical considerations related to your research.
  • Explain the importance of your research.
  • Clearly state the potential contributions your study can make.
  • Provide a detailed plan for executing your research.
  • Include a timeline, milestones, and the allocation of resources.
  • Potential Challenges and Limitations:
  • Acknowledge possible obstacles and limitations.
  • Discuss strategies to address challenges proactively.
  • Summarize the key points of your research proposal.
  • Reiterate the significance of your research.
  • Invite feedback and suggestions.
  • References:
  • Cite all the sources and literature used in your proposal.
  • Follow the appropriate citation style ( APA, MLA, Chicago , etc.).
  • Appendices (if necessary):
  • Include any supplementary materials such as surveys, questionnaires, or additional data.

Tips for Composing a Research Proposal

  • Clarity and Conciseness: Use clear and straightforward language. Avoid unnecessary jargon that may confuse readers.
  • Alignment: Ensure that each section of your proposal aligns with the overall research objective.
  • Feasibility: Confirm that your proposed research is feasible within the given time and resource constraints.
  • Review and Revise: Review your proposal for coherence, consistency, and clarity. Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or advisors and make revisions accordingly.
  • Adherence to Guidelines: Follow any specific guidelines or instructions provided by your institution or funding agency.
  • Engage the Reader: Capture the reader’s attention in the introduction and maintain engagement throughout.
  • Ethical Considerations: Clearly address any ethical concerns related to your research, ensuring compliance with ethical standards.

Selecting research proposal topics is a nuanced process that requires a blend of personal passion, academic rigor, and an understanding of the broader context.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the seas of research proposal development with confidence, ensuring that your chosen topic is not only compelling but also lays the foundation for meaningful and impactful research.

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Research Proposal Topics: 503 Ideas, Sample, & Guide [2024]

Do you have to write a research proposal and can’t choose one from the professor’s list? This article may be exactly what you need.

We will provide you with the most up-to-date undergraduate and postgraduate topic ideas. Moreover, we will share the secrets of the winning research proposal writing.

Here, you will find possible ideas for research proposal topics from the best custom writing service that may be used to create your own proposal project as well as a direction for further investigation! So let’s start!

  • 🔬 Research Proposal Definition
  • IT Research
  • 📝 Writing Guide
  • 📄 Proposal Sample

🔬 Research Proposal: Definition

First of all, let’s make clear what a research proposal is. A research proposal is a type of paper you write to show others that you have a project to investigate. A research proposal demonstrates the following:

✔️Why the you chose is worth attention.
✔️What you will take to explore the topic.
✔️What and you will use in your research.

The purpose of proposal writing is to persuade others that your topic needs to be investigated. Your task is to write a well-structured text that covers all the necessary points. Make sure that everyone can understand what you wish to investigate, why it’s important, and how you are going to do it.

💡 Research Proposal Topics

Now that you know what a research proposal is, it’s time to begin the work.

What is the first thing to be done, then?

That’s right—you need to choose a topic!

The list of research proposal topics below will help you start the process. Some of the research topics are simple, while others are quite complicated. The more difficult problems also contain a short description, so that you can understand immediately whether that topic would be interesting for you.

Political Science Research Proposal Topics

Researching political science gives you plenty of room for exploration. Do you want to investigate local or global politics? Are you interested in historical or contemporary issues? The number of options is overwhelming. Have a look at this list to make choosing easier:

  • Fascism and Nazism: the contemporary usage of the terms and their meaning in the history of politics. Nowadays, the terms “Fascism” and “Nazism” are often used interchangeably. The terms are originally meant to refer to Italian and German political regimes. However, the doctrines themselves have important differences.
  • Contemporary religious extremism and its political and economic basis. The modern Western society is ambiguous. On the one hand, religious tolerance endorsed; on the other, religious extremism is often used to add some fuel to the fire of intolerance. Understanding the economic and political basis of religious extremism might prove helpful in breaking the illusions of both sides.
  • Bernie Sanders and Jeremy Corbyn: socialists in the contemporary U.K. and U.S. politics. The U.S. Democratic Party devised its failure during the 2016 Presidential Elections by selecting Hillary Clinton. She wasn’t very popular with the public, unlike well-loved, but so-scarily-leftist Bernie Sanders. At the same time, Jeremy Corbyn and his supporters were partially successful in addressing the stagnation in the British Labor Party. Comparing the two leftist leaders and their political agenda might serve as an interesting research project topic.
  • Anarchism as a political orientation and a worldview. Anarchism is commonly mistaken for chaos. In fact, it simply means the absence of formal authority and prevalence of grassroots cooperation. Numerous movements exist within anarchism, such as anarcho-syndicalism, anarcho-pacifism, etc. Their proponents have a worldview that radically differs from the “center,” albeit often it’s by no means an extremist one. Classifying and elucidating different anarchist theories and worldviews can prove a worthy research topic.
  • A fragile democracy: the contemporary political crisis in Myanmar. Myanmar has for a long time suffered under the dictatorship of a military junta. The junta only dissolved in 2011, and the National League for Democracy officially rules. Yet, the militaries remain strong and often uncontrollable. The resulting crisis is tragic, and writing about it could be a good topic for a research proposal.
  • The Arab Spring and its impact on the contemporary Middle East. The Arab Spring was a wave of demonstrations, protests, and revolutions in the countries of the Middle East. There was a hope that they would result in more democratic political regimes across the region. However, the results were far from optimistic. The massive impact of this phenomenon makes the Arab Spring an excellent topic example for a research proposal.
  • Sarah Palin and her role in the RNC.
  • Shakespeare and his influence on politics.
  • The military policy of Georgia toward South Ossetia.
  • Racialization of Arab Americans in the post-9/11 era.
  • What countries are most opposed to globalization?
  • The Supreme Court’s close decisions regarding minorities.
  • The social credit system: myths and realities.
  • Why are many people disappointed with the two-party system?
  • Discuss Mexico’s reaction to the US anti-immigration policies.
  • How does religion influence secular countries’ politics?

Research Proposal Topics in Information Technology

In recent years, the demand for IT skills has skyrocketed. This trend is likely to continue for the next few decades. Humanity’s dependency on computers keeps growing. Because of this, solid knowledge in IT makes you an invaluable employee for any company. So, get started by writing about one of our engaging prompts:

  • Traditional envisioning centers on linear tracks. It connects lines to show differences or similarities. Explore how comparative genomics can analyze numerous genomes in 3D surfaces.
  • Real-time feedback in education . Student’s feedback is essential for both teachers and learners. Examine the ways and existing technologies that allow a teacher to get feedback on how students understand the lessons. Suggest concepts aimed at improving the professor-student communication.
  • WLAN Networks: H.264 video transmission. You can assess how to improve cross-layer architecture for video transmission in WLAN Network. Examine ways to enhance video quality performance.
  • Wireless Multimedia Sensor Networks (WMSN): performance. This topic can help you generate a whole list of ideas for further IT studies: frameworks, analysis of existing solutions, etc. You can investigate transport, physical layers, or application of the communication protocol stack.
  • WLAN Network: improvement of FEC algorithms. Explore the possible way to improve FEC schemes in cases of wireless channel loss.
  • Software sizing and pricing: correlation . As you may know, software’s size significantly impacts its estimated price. In your proposal, suggest methods to evaluate and lower software size.
  • Component-based software engineering (CBSE) process: ways to improve. You can choose this topic among other interesting IT project proposal ideas. Investigate how CBSE can shorten the time for production, increase software quality, and reduce its costs.
  • User’s behavior in social networks . Social networks are under the risk of improper users’ behavior. Provide points to detect such behavior and how to prevent it.
  • Education technologies in higher education. Research methods and tools that will enhance constructive alignment in higher education teaching.
  • How can the government potentially abuse facial recognition?
  • Discuss unmanned vehicles from drivers’ perception.
  • 5G: usage barriers and future developments.
  • Review possible solutions to current AI-related issues .
  • Discuss the role of IT in promoting false information.
  • What do massive data breaches mean for regular users?
  • How do social media algorithms impact user experience?
  • Review e-governments and other attempts to digitalize the state.
  • What can happen if we integrate organic processes into robots ?
  • AI in the military : violence mitigation effects.

Computer Science Project Proposal Topics

Technology surrounds us everywhere. The internet, for one, has drastically changed the way we communicate. These developments affect all aspects of our lives. One big area that has significantly benefited from ICT is education.

  • Machine learning use in prediction of students’ success. Analyze how machine learning can be useful in predicting students’ grades and the rates of course completion. You can use this example to get more ideas on measurement teacher’s effectiveness.
  • Students’ profile and study courses. Wrong course choice can lead to poor grades and turn studying into a waste of time. Provide suggestions on how analytics can help in students’ course choices.
  • Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in education. Examine how the use of AR and VR impacts students’ comprehension of the course contents. What effect do AR and VR have on students’ performance?
  • Learning preferences and customized study process. You can analyze how various students’ learning preferences, e.g., Visual, Kinesthetic , etc. can benefit from optimized learning.
  • IoT and teachers’ effectiveness. Provide suggestions on how educators can adjust their teaching styles using IoT devices and sensors.
  • VR and AR roles in the assessment process. Virtual and Augmented Reality can be useful in students’ performance assessment. Suggest ways of how the professor can use VR and AR.
  • Gamification in education. Gamification elements can be found almost everywhere: social media, professional software, and education. Analyze how gamification can be applied to various subjects. Assess the possible student outcomes.
  • Social media and group projects. Social networks, such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, are an integral part of our daily life. Assess how social media can be useful in learning, and, especially, for group projects.
  • Mobile apps: usage growth. Here’s another great sample of quantitative titles. Analyze the factors that impact the usage rate of mobile applications.
  • Will the Internet be available everywhere in the future?
  • Describe preview techniques to compensate for low bandwidth.
  • What are the weak points of financial cybersecurity ?
  • Discuss the risks related to the use of smart appliances.
  • Write about issues with online surveys.
  • Review the trends in medical software development.
  • What health issues are associated with the use of VR devices?
  • Cyberwarfare: restored and new underpinning technologies.
  • Assess the use of e-learning in initial employee integration.
  • Desktop and mobile app versions: how to ensure better functionality.

Business Research Proposal Topics

There’s much more to business than just talking finances. Your topic can be theoretical as well as empirical. Writing about business can cover areas such as strategic planning, leadership, or sustainability.

  • The impact of employee motivation on their performance . Is it true that highly motivated staff work better? And if yes, how much better does it work? The importance of this question warrants its further investigation and may prove a worthwhile topic for your dissertation research proposal.
  • Disaster preparedness plans for the business. In many regions of the world, disasters such as hurricanes or earthquakes occur frequently. The costs and losses of business due to such disasters may be tremendous. Consequently, the ways to make one’s company safe is an excellent research topic in business.
  • Ways to transition to a new organizational culture. Studying the ways to make such a transition smooth and seamless could be a great research paper idea.
  • The most effective leadership styles for various types of businesses. The leadership has a great impact on business performance, but it’s possible that for all types of companies there’s a certain management style that would be most effective. This theme could be a useful and interesting research topic for your proposal.
  • Environmental friendliness of a business: additional costs or a way to make more profit? Many business leaders assume that decreasing the amount of waste their company produces will only result in losses. However, this is not true: eco-friendliness improves business reputation and attracts more clients. Investigating the effect of environmental friendliness on business performance could be an interesting research idea.
  • The impact of various types of stakeholders on the success of a business. Exploring its exact impact on a company may be an excellent idea for your quantitative research proposal.
  • Business management and innovation. Social engineering technologies caused significant changes in marketing, customer-organization relations, communications, etc. Assess how these technologies can be used in business.
  • Effective energy management and its role in sustainable development. If you’re looking for business proposal topics, analyze this title. Provide suggestions on how enterprises can increase their energy effectiveness.
  • Social entrepreneurship in developing countries. How can a business increase its social value without prejudice to its profits? You can use this topic for your master’s or business administration dissertation.
  • Ethics and corporate social responsibility. Ethical issues remain a popular topic for research studies. Point out how corporate responsibility can increase the loyalty of employees.
  • Accounting and accountability. If you’re looking for business quantitative topic examples, explore the connection between accounting and accountability.
  • Business management and its effect on profits . The goal of any company is to make profits. Assess how business management influences company’s losses and profits.
  • Sustainable development : the relationship with business in the 21 st century. How does sustainable development affect business? What does it mean to be a sustainable leader? Give examples of organizations that became successful in the 21st century. What are the factors that have influenced their success?
  • Strategy of communication: old vs. new. Choose a company featuring a new communication strategy. Why did the management of the company decide to use it? Describe the existing practices of communication strategies. What is their effect on the company’s reputation? How do they affect performance and financial outcomes? What difference can a chosen way of communication make to stakeholders?
  • China and the US: cultural and organizational behavior. Why is the Chinese market so attractive for US companies? Give examples of US companies who depend on the Chinese market. What barriers for building a business on the Chinese market are there? What are the best strategies to sell products or services in China? Recommend the best-suited regimen for the introduction of a product. Give information about organizational behavior in China. What makes it unique?
  • New technologies in hospitals. What are the main difficulties associated with new technologies in a medical center? Why is there a need to keep up with the changing technologies? What healthcare issues create the biggest administration barriers? Does it affect the cost? Provide a real-life example.
  • Small businesses vs. big enterprises. What is the current stand of small businesses in your area? How does their performance compare to that of big established brands? Is there a place for small businesses in the next decades, or are they dying out? If that happens, in what way will it affect the economy? What can one do to prevent monopolization of the market?
  • Advertising strategies: how to advertise different types of businesses. What types of ads are known to give the best results market-wise? What advertising strategies work best for big corporations? What about small businesses? Give real-life examples. Does the cost of advertising correlate with marketing success?
  • Inexperienced workers: how can they find a job? Is there a market for people fresh out of colleges and inexperienced workers? What social groups fall under the category? Is the demand for such people reflected in the paychecks? What can be done to maximize their appeal as employees? Will it benefit or harm the economy?
  • Employee reward system: how to boost the workers’ performance? Describe the programs that companies set up to reward employees. Does it affect employees’ motivation? Illustrate your analysis with statistics. What types of rewards are there? Which of them work better? Should a company decide whom to reward?
  • How to implement corporate ethical policy. What is ethical in the corporate world of the 21st century? Does the public image of a company reflect on its sales? Give examples of successful marketing campaigns centered on ethical issues. Can a company’s message affect employees’ productivity?
  • Advertising strategies and the importance of advertising for business.
  • Strategies for running a business.
  • Importance of business planning.
  • How does virtual reality attract customers?
  • What influences employees’ adaptation to new practices?
  • How does competition function in disadvantageous times?
  • Small and medium-sized enterprises: how to survive.
  • Discuss ways of marketing the same product to different generations.
  • Digitalization and supply chain recovery in crises.
  • Out-of-touch leaders: are they useful for business initiatives?

Management Research Proposal Topics

Management is a vital part of every company. That’s why good governance is the key to success. Researching this subject will prove helpful for your future career.

  • Ruskin Bond’s team conflict dynamic model: how to achieve project success. Analyze various conflict types using Ruskin Bond’s team model. What resolutions can improve a project? What can result in the project’s success?
  • How to improve product development using dynamic capability? Do relationships between employees affect their performance? How can they achieve knowledge integration and strategic flexibility? Use a theoretical framework in your study. Analyze the data using structural equation modeling.
  • Allocation of human resources. What are the issues associated with human resource allocation? Investigate the mechanisms of top-down resource allocation. Use empirical research techniques in your research.
  • Project benefit management: how to set effective target benefits? What is the scale of practical target benefits? Validate your research by presenting case studies. Use goal-setting theory in your study. Analyze the dimensions of comprehensiveness, attainability, and specificity.
  • Person-centered vs. team-centered leadership. Describe how to balance a project manager’s style of interaction. Use Archer realist social theory in your research. Conduct the study using mixed methods of data analysis.
  • Project managers. What is their role in internal and external relationship management? Use mixed methods in your research. Categorize the role groups. Illustrate the transition from traditional to new project management.
  • The project’s added value and trust-conflict in an inter-team relationship. Do trust-conflict interactions impact project added value? Investigate relational and calculative trust dimensions. Study the influence of trust-conflict interactions on project added values. Explore task, project, and relationship conflicts.
  • How to encourage the building industry to evolve into a lower carbon construction equivalent. Analyze the effects of building development project processes. How much energy does building consume, and how much are there carbon emissions? Does it affect indoor environmental quality? What are the associated needs of operations management?
  • Project management practices in private organizations. Which project management practices are used in private organizations? What are the sectors of their activity? Examine the influence of managers’ personal characteristics. How do they choose their project management practices? Use a mixed-methods research methodology.
  • Process groups vs. the project life cycle . How are both methods implemented in a project? Collect the data using questionnaires sampled from project managers in your area. Analyze the data using inferential statistics.
  • What are the advantages of Facebook in the e-commerce field ?
  • What are the skills related to management strategies?
  • Why is genuineness a major factor of success?
  • What is a red ocean strategy in social media marketing?
  • The benefits of exponential thinking in management.
  • Virtual human resources: is it a complication?
  • Explore constructive deviance’s role in improving businesses.
  • Ambiguous IT innovations in human resource management.
  • Big data competencies for maintaining managerial competitiveness.
  • Discuss talent cultivation and protection in competitive fields.

MBA Research Proposal Topic Ideas

Time is money. How can you use it more effectively? That’s one of the central questions you can suggest investigating in an MBA research proposal. For more inspiration, check out these ideas:

  • Cost of packaging: does it affect manufacturer’s profitability? What are the most and the least popular types of packaging materials? How does the cost of packaging depend on its type? What are the problems associated with the most popular types of packaging? Give recommendations to improve the packaging strategies.
  • Financial incentives as a tool for boosting workers’ motivation. What types of financial incentives do workers receive in different kinds of organizations? Do organizations recognize the correlation between productivity and financial incentives? Study how to enhance workers’ productivity and motivation.
  • Effective employee selection and recruitment. Does it work as a tool for achieving top productivity in a company? What should one consider in the process of employee selection? How can the knowledge of the labor turnover rate help choose a suitable candidate? How do you identify the candidates most suitable for career promotion?
  • The durability of small scale business start-ups. How can one make sure that they’ve chosen the best project? How does one determine investment appraisal of small business in your area? Does this process benefit both the economy in general and the investors in particular? Can inaccurate methods of project assessment be identified early? What are the ways to avoid low returns?
  • Time management in a company. Study how time is usually managed in companies. What types of work-time organization are there? Why would a company choose unconventional time management techniques? Does it reflect on the productivity of employees? Does it affect the company’s success in general?
  • Ailing industries: will privatization help them? Identify the prospects and problems of ailing industries’ privatization. Conduct a case study. What are the reasons for the ineffectiveness of the service? Will the privatization help the business?
  • Work environment and employees’ productivity. Study how to identify inadequacies of the workplace environment . What physical and psychological discomfort is involved? What solutions can be provided? Examine the environmental factors in a given company. Employ both the investigative and the descriptive approach in your research. Collect data using the interview and survey methods.
  • Strategic human resource management . What are the ways to determine its effectiveness? Are strategic human resource practice and a company’s performance connected? Obtain the information for the study through questionnaire responses. Analyze your findings. Find out whether there is a relationship between strategic resource management and organization performance.
  • Corporate governance. Study its impact on the management of an organization. Who designs and implements the processes and rules practiced in a company? What is the primary force that influences corporate governance? Use research questions, surveys, and questionnaires in your study. Analyze the collected data through mean scores and frequencies. What are the systemic problems militating against corporate governance?
  • Microfinance organizations and their impact on small-scale organizations. How do microfinance organizations encourage banking habits among poorer populations? How can the economic status of the small scale manufacturers be improved by giving them more capital? How can microfinance credit influence a company’s performance? What are the possible drawbacks of this business relationship?
  • Review how leadership relates to job satisfaction .
  • What is the key to success behind family enterprises ?
  • HR training’s direct impact on retaining employees.
  • Managing stakeholder attitude: potential performance implications.
  • What factors are responsible for an organization’s sustainability?
  • How can AI help strategic business management?
  • Discuss business start-ups in the digital age.
  • What happens when law and decision-making collide?
  • Employee commitment during uncertain times.
  • Leadership reinvention: effects for a chosen model.

Business Project Proposal Ideas

Have you been planning to start your own company? Or maybe you’d like to develop a product that makes life easier? A business project research proposal allows you to put your dream on paper. If you don’t have a concrete idea just yet, here is some inspiration:

  • A mobile application to recruit potential staff. The app will involve problem-solving puzzles. It will monitor the time spent on solving them without using outside resources. The top 10 players can be later contacted.
  • A website specializing in collecting customized orders. The website will gather information on what people want to be made. It will send requests to affiliated creators. They, in turn, choose what they can complete based on their specialty.
  • An e-book café and hardware/software funding. It will focus on convenient models with vast libraries. They will also provide customers with food and music.
  • A traditionally animated film in the style of old classics. Most of today’s animated films rely on CGI. Due to the nostalgia factor, a hand-drawn feature could be successful.
  • A representative-operated national food restaurant. The idea is to hire representatives of the culture the restaurant is based on. It may increase engagement with different demographics.
  • A social media website that takes user’s suggestions into account. Competing with more established players in the field is challenging. However, you may take advantage of their known weaknesses. Your website would mind user feedback and thus avoid introducing unpopular changes.
  • Safe-space avenue for online and offline presentations. Minority groups may find it challenging to access busier platforms. Offering them a spot that will guarantee their safety may benefit both parties.
  • A reverse experience school for disabled people. The experiment will follow the principles of inclusivity . People without disabilities would comprise a minority. It would allow disabled people to feel less constrained.
  • A digital platform for aspiring influencers. The service will offer advice and suggest the steps for building an audience.
  • An analog fast food product for vegans. Today’s restaurants offer replacements for meat-based dishes. Still, it’s not always the case. That’s why a product designed with the help of clients’ feedback may become popular.
  • A tattoo studio for writing-based designs.
  • A streaming service for cult classics.
  • A smart hotel for pets.
  • A vintage CD-ROM music production kit.
  • A real-life matchmaking service for single parents.
  • A lactose-free nutritional drink for selling in gyms.
  • A hotline with qualified mental health specialists.
  • A TV show focused on Native American representation.
  • A third-party mediator in a customer-realtor transaction.
  • An organization providing research opportunities for students.

Research Proposal Topics on Education

Education plays a crucial role in our lives. It’s an area where constant research and improvement are incredibly important. Check out these ideas:

  • The importance of early interventions in special education for children with disabilities. Investigating the “why” of it might be an interesting research topic for high school students.
  • The use of innovative technologies in education . The ubiquity of computers and smartphones means that they also used in studies. Finding out new ways in which innovations might assist teachers could be an interesting research paper idea.
  • The effectiveness of online universities in providing education. It could be an exciting research topic idea to compare online institutions to traditional.
  • University education in a narrow specialization: a way to increase professionalism, or to spread ignorance? There exists a trend of providing education in a narrow area or specialty in the contemporary higher education setting. However, traditional universities have also been known to teach their students a wide range of courses. The benefits of an education in a narrow field and the costs of losing the tradition of an all-encompassing education are a worthwhile topic for a Phd. research proposal.
  • Innovative approaches to teaching. The need for the instructor to interact with students is becoming more and more apparent in the contemporary educational setting. Studying the benefits and drawbacks of this approach might be an excellent idea for a research proposal topic list for education majors.
  • The impacts of inclusive education on children without special needs. Inclusive learning is believed to have a positive influence on children with special needs and has become a trend nowadays. However, it’s unclear how such education affects children without special needs, which warrants further investigation of this research topic.

Harassment and bullying have been factors in 75% of shooting incidents.

  • Classroom management techniques for high school. High school teachers often have to deal with disruptive behaviors of their students. Finding out what classroom management techniques work best for this may prove a useful and engaging research topic idea.
  • Problematic children: approaches to managing a child’s temperament . All children have their own personality. It can be difficult for parents to understand how to manage it. Many management approaches are depending on how a child behaves.
  • How parents’ overprotectiveness may cause a child to become anxious? Some children are insecure and worrisome in unfamiliar situations. In this situation, parents should avoid being overprotective. Encouraging a child to explore is the best strategy.
  • Impulsive children: parenting strategies . Parents often struggle with kids whose behavior is hard to predict. There are ways to make it easier. Parents should remain gentle with children. But, at the same time, they should promote their child’s self-discipline.
  • What role does art play in child development? It’s one of the most relevant and exciting topics for research proposals in education. Everyone supports art classes in early childhood development. However, in many countries, art disappears from the list of subjects in middle and high school. Is it the correct approach? How does art affect children’s development?
  • Child development : aesthetic education as a core learning approach. Another great title of research proposal in education, also worth choosing it as a thesis topic. You can look into the benefits of aesthetic education. It helps children to become creative and see things from new points of view.
  • Testing system: should it be reformed? Everyone agrees that there are too many flaws in the current testing system. Not only can it be unfair; it also puts pressure on children and college students. Look into why and how the testing system is flawed and if there is a need to fix it.
  • Does the testing system impact on children’s self-confidence? Tests and exams cause children to develop anxiety and depression. Moreover, this problem may aggravate. It can lead children to develop low self-confidence and hurt their social skills.
  • The purpose of early intervention. Some children need special or extra care and support throughout their development. But how to understand who needs it, and how will they benefit from it? Why would this approach be the best for them?
  • Education and innovative technologies. E-books and tablets are replacing textbooks. Chalkboards are out of use since smart boards are the new solution. Both children and teachers are adapting to the latest technologies. You might research the most recent trends in this topic.
  • Educational apps for children: advantages and disadvantages. Even toddlers can use smartphones and tablets now. Parents might as well use technologies for educational purposes. However, it may be tricky. Some apps combine the story with learning outcome goals and promote creativity. Others might have too much action and sound. This only distracts children from learning.
  • What is the optimal “ screen time” for children ? When parents want some time to rest from kids, they just turn the TV on. Is it harmful or beneficial for children? Try to find out how much time they should spend with it.
  • General education courses in college: are they necessary? Such courses include algebra, biology, and chemistry. But what if a student wants to focus on studying languages? It’s one of the best questions about higher education.
  • Innovative approaches to contacting problematic children.
  • Aesthetic education as a basis for child development .
  • Advantages and disadvantages of a testing system.
  • What’s your opinion on teachers instructing AI replacements?
  • Real-time online classes or asynchronous learning models: what’s better?
  • Assess learning loss in the top universities in 2024.
  • Ineffective civics classes: where did the system fail?
  • What are the health implications of remote teaching?
  • Learning to engineer: aims and instruments.
  • Assess the importance of peer feedback in education.

Special Education Research Proposal Topics

There are many questions regarding the best approach in educating kids with special needs. Should they always study with their peers? Or do they need special classes to tackle their individual requirements? Your research proposal can focus on various aspects. The parents’ roles or the use of technology are compelling examples.

  • Does inclusive education promote empathy in children without special needs? It’s one of the best learning strategies for kids with learning disabilities. No one asks what children without special needs think about it. Still, little kids are open-hearted. Most of them are happy to help their peers with difficulties.
  • Does dyslexia affect a child’s social skills? In the company of loving parents, a child with dyslexia will be OK. As children start socializing, they start noticing the problems with reading. It may lead to shaming and excluding them from social groups.
  • Classroom management for inclusive high schools. Disruptive behavior is a common thing in high schools. However, everything is different when the school is inclusive. Teachers face various challenges every day. New practical ideas in this field may be beneficial.
  • Does early intervention impact children with learning disabilities ? Early intervention includes therapies for those who have issues with learning. Your research might consist of comparing and contrasting those methods. Find out which are the best. You may even try to develop a new approach!
  • Should we educate children about their peers who have special needs? There are training programs for teachers working with kids with learning disabilities. But what about their peers? Would children with special needs feel more support if their classmates were more understanding?
  • Innovative approaches to teaching in special education . More individual interaction between a teacher and each student. In inclusive classes, it’s especially relevant. You would need to look for innovative approaches. Most research proposal questions in education are not as urgent as this one!
  • Does stress influence children with learning disabilities more than others during testing? In this research, focus on the more vulnerable group of students. Special education should address this question with caution.
  • How to identify and prevent reading problems in the early stage. In school, all the learning issues of a child come out. It’s vital to identify the problem immediately to prevent trauma. Look into the root causes of this problem and its possible solutions.
  • Technology integration for children with special needs. This topic is connected with many questions. You would need to address all of them in your research. A sample would look like this: “What are the benefits of technology in special education?”
  • How strict should educators be with children with learning disabilities? Of course, it depends on each individual. Still, there should be some limits. All special education teachers should know how to balance being strict and permissive. Your research can serve as a guide for aspiring teachers!
  • The role of parents in special education. Healthy development of a child with special needs doesn’t end with teachers. Parents also play an important role in their kids’ education. How exactly can they help their child with learning disabilities?
  • The role of computers in accessible school environment.
  • Learning disparity mitigation and special education certificates .
  • Discuss the pros and cons of compromises in inclusive classrooms .
  • What are the main challenges for FAPE’s universal application?
  • Do we need new regulations in special education ?
  • Review current school models for disabled students.
  • Shortage of qualified educators: what can we do?
  • Special education during a pandemic: lessons learned.
  • What do co-occurring needs imply for teachers and students?

Research Proposal Topics in Early Childhood Education

Young children are extremely impressionable. Because of this, early childhood education has a huge impact on kids’ development. Many factors need careful consideration. Among them are learning techniques and the need of incorporating the child’s social background.

  • Executive functions and early childhood education: working memory. It’s easily one of the most interesting research proposal topics in early childhood education. How do children connect their ideas? How does their mind work? And how can we use this in education?
  • Early childhood : brain development through playing. The brain develops most actively during the first two years of our lives. At that age, the brain is especially vulnerable because it reacts to all environmental changes. It’s essential to support children’s development through play and stress reduction.
  • Early childhood development: child care facilities vs. home. Increasingly more mothers prefer to get back to work right after the birth of their children. Daycare services are developing to meet all the child’s needs. However, can it replace the quality time children spend with their parents?
  • Quality child care facility: an overview. What should high-quality child care be like? Parents often face the challenge of picking the right place for their child while they don’t know what to look for. You can provide research comparing and contrasting the best child care facilities in your area.
  • Culture and early childhood education: immigrant families. Culture shapes the behavior and beliefs of small children. Immigrant families especially should always consider it. Education programs need to be adjusted to the cultural differences.
  • How to divorce and not harm a child’s development. We all understand that there can be different life situations, and sometimes it’s better for people to be separated. However, it gets complicated when they are also parents. A child’s mental and emotional health is at risk during the divorce. What are the ways to protect children from this stress?
  • Paternity and early childhood education . Fathers play an essential role in their children’s social skills. They affect children’s future relationships and emotional health. During your research on this topic, don’t forget to consider the sociocultural context.
  • Early childhood development : gender socialization. It’s a controversial topic. Nowadays, more and more parents want to raise their children in a gender-neutral environment. How can they achieve a balance?
  • Early childhood education and play-based learning. Play-based learning has been approved as one of the best approaches in early childhood development. It allows guidance from a parent while promoting a child’s independence. Play enables children to learn math, reading, and other skills engagingly.
  • School readiness and early childhood education. Going to school can be stressful for both kids and parents. To minimize stress, parents can take an active part in preparing their children for this experience. This research would be aimed to identify the skills children need to gain to be ready for school.
  • What are the benefits of learning the second language for children? In our globalized world, parents aim to give more opportunities to their children by teaching them foreign languages . It has been researched that learning a second language can be beneficial for children’s cognitive behavior.
  • Aboriginal children education: obstacles to language development.
  • Does the readiness rate contribute to injustice?
  • Outline the new forms of play in schools.
  • Discuss the use of relaxing games in class.
  • How do teachers facilitate peer communication?
  • Explore the implications of racial diversity in educators.
  • Remote learning for young children: how much is enough?
  • Assess teacher-child interactions during breaks.
  • What activities contribute to improving reading skills ?

Sociology Research Proposal Topics

Humans are erratic creatures. Yet, we all manage to live together. Are you interested in studying the mechanics of society? Then you should consider a research proposal in sociology .

  • The impact of citizen’s wealth elections. Determine how economic conditions and people’s income influence voting patterns.
  • Correlation between personality, income, and career choice . You can explore how personal skills and family income motivate youth to choose their future career path.
  • Population background and racial discrimination. Explore mechanisms to prevent racial discrimination in societies with a diverse background of people. You can also analyze the impact of Brexit and Trump’s slogan “Make America great again” on the rise of race discrimination.
  • State pension age and its effect on the labor market. Identify how the increase of the state pension age (SPA) influences a person’s and country’s labor supply. What is the contribution of the increase of SPA to the state’s economy?
  • Investing behavior: neuroeconomic approach. In the Ph.D. proposal, examine how cognitive factors influence success in the financial market. Offer your ideas on how to improve the decision-making process in investments.
  • Poverty among ethnic minorities. Since the financial crisis in 2008, in-work poverty became a significant issue, especially among ethnic minorities . Analyze this issue and research how it impacts occupational mobility.
  • Fiscal policy and its correlation to asset pricing. Generate risk aversion ideas and asset pricing concepts. Provide recommendations for optimal fiscal policy and its improvements.
  • Racial identity and conflicts: interrelations. Conflicts are unavoidable in our daily life. In your Ph.D. research proposal, you can analyze how a person’s conflict behavior depends on their racial identity.
  • Social responsibility: developing countries. Research what safety and health actions should take companies in the construction industry of developing countries.
  • Describe the national specifics of poverty feminization.
  • Is there a link between parental practices and children’s social attitudes?
  • How did the meaning of happiness evolve through generations?
  • Segregation in modern cities.
  • Discuss the early stages of language acquisition.
  • Is the American dream attainable for minority groups?
  • Social expectations and dating preferences: how to match pairs.
  • Does family structure impact one’s occupation?
  • Social networks and deviant tendencies: what’s the correlation?
  • What factors are driving people to military enlistment?

Other Research Proposal Topics

History research proposal example topics.

Maybe you enjoy tracing the footsteps of past societies. Or perhaps you like to study the battles of the 20 th century. Whatever your preference is, researching any part of history will certainly yield fascinating results.

  • The memory of World War II in the United States. American history books often depict the United States as a country that played a key role in defeating Nazi Germany and its allies. But was it true? And if not, what purpose did this image serve in the post-war years, and what is its function today?
  • Witch Hunt in Europe during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The Holy Inquisition is notorious for its hunt and torturous murder of countless women for their alleged practice of witchcraft. The history of this hunt, as well as the doctrine of the Inquisition, might be an interesting research topic.
  • Vladimir Lenin and Joseph Stalin: a comparison of policies. The October Revolution played a significant role in history, resulting in the birth of the Soviet Union. The country was to become a communist utopia. Instead, the revolution proved violent. When Lenin died, and Stalin came to power, the country turned into a bloody dictatorship. A possible history research proposal, for example, would be the investigation of the differences between the policies of Lenin, who did try to build socialism, and Stalin, who organized a reign of terror.
  • The French Revolution and its impact on the history of 19th century Europe. The French Revolution is known to be one of the most influential events in history, even though it ended in a dictatorship. The revolution’s impact on European history might serve as a worthwhile topic for research writing.
  • European colonization of the Americas and the fate of Native Americans. Although the reputation of Christopher Columbus and other explorers of the New World is mostly positive, the reality was far more serious. The colonizers used ruthless and violent methods to deal with Native Americans, massacring them to gain land and enslaving them into labor. The history of cruelty might nonetheless prove an interesting topic for a history project proposal.
  • The history of racism in the United States. Whether one likes it or not, racism played an important role in the history of the U.S. The country has not yet recovered from its consequences. The history of American racist ideas might be a good topic for research that may possibly help battle racial discrimination.
  • History and evolution of Buddhism in the world.
  • The fate of the Jewish people during World War II.
  • Trace the development of the post-Macedonian empires.
  • How did Princess Diana influence the Royal Family’s image ?
  • Write about Magna Carta and its legacy.
  • Discuss short-lived Chinese dynasties and their demise.
  • Joan of Arc’s image throughout the ages .
  • Explore the British Empire’s conflicts with its colonies.
  • What was Caesar’s role in spreading Latin in Europe?
  • The ideological background for 20 th -century civil wars.

Research Proposal Topics in English and World Literature

If you’re passionate about reading , this section is for you. From Dostoyevsky to Austen, this list contains only the most engaging prompts in literature.

  • The character of Sonya Marmeladova in Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment . Sonya Marmeladova is one of the most appealing and sympathetic characters in world literature. A teenage girl, she is the embodiment of kindness and allegiance, which is not changed by the fact that she has to work as a prostitute to support her family. Analyzing her character can be an excellent research project topic.
  • Tragic love in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet . The tragic story of Romeo and Juliet’s love is perhaps one of the most well-known stories in the world. It may prove a good writing topic for any course in English literature.
  • The real-life plausibility of the role of Dorian’s portrait in Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray . The picture of Dorian played the role of a “moral mirror” for the protagonist of the story. But would a real-world person such as Dorian pay so much attention to such a portrait, if they had it? This is a good research question that can be investigated further.
  • The character of Eliza Doolittle in G. B. Shaw’s Pygmalion . In Shaw’s play, a simple flower girl turned into a refined woman after Professor Henry Higgins taught her. Her unique transformation may be studied further if you choose this sample idea as your research proposal topic.
  • Melville’s Moby-Dick : a story of a captain’s folly. One of the greatest novels in the history of American literature is devoted to Captain Ahab, planning his revenge on a white whale named Moby Dick. Would such anthropomorphization of a whale make sense in real-life, though? Selecting this as a research paper topic may help you find more about this question.
  • Jane Eyre : the story of Cinderella by C. Brontë. Does the complicated and multifaceted nature of Jane Eyre make it a Cinderella story? Further study of C. Brontë’s masterpiece may be one of the best proposal ideas for your research.
  • Analysis of Poe’s writing style in The Raven .
  • Lost hope in Hemingway’s  A Farewell to Arms . 
  • Racial discrimination in Uncle Tom’s Cabin .
  • Explore white normativity in Toni Morrison’s Tar Baby .
  • What is the proposed image of Prometheus in Frankenstein ?
  • Freudian concepts of sexuality in The Monk .
  • Gender expectations and the Bronte sisters’ works.
  • Study the anatomical imagery in The Merchant of Venice .
  • Domestic animals in T.S. Eliot’s poetry.
  • Vanity Fair : are its main characters realistic or symbolic?

Chemistry Research Proposal Topic Ideas

Do you enjoy analyzing what our world is made of? With a research proposal in chemistry , you can do precisely that. Whether you’re into inorganic or biochemistry, this section has what you need.

  • The impact of the temperature on chemical reaction speed. Generally speaking, higher temperature means that chemical reactions occur faster. Investigating in greater detail why this happens may be an interesting research topic for high school students.
  • The use of organometallic compounds in the industry. Organometallic compounds play a vital role in modern chemistry and widely used in numerous spheres of production. Studying their profits might prove an interesting research proposal idea.
  • The use of organic solvents in the contemporary world. Organic solvents are essential today, being widely used for a variety of purposes. Studying them might be a great research idea for a proposal.
  • The difference between covalent and ionic bonds. Covalent and ionic bonds are two of the most important types of chemical bonds between atoms. Further elucidating the similarities and differences between them is a worthwhile research proposal idea for high school students.
  • The mechanisms of reaction catalysis and inhibition. Chemical catalysts and inhibitors are widely used in the contemporary world to quicken or slow down the speed of chemical reactions. The mechanism by which catalysts and inhibitors work could prove a worthwhile paper topic.
  • Chemically related toxicants: their impact on human health. Chemical toxicants may be present as contaminants released by factories. Another way toxicants can exist is pollution and the results of environmental effects. In your chemistry research proposal, examine how to prevent potential toxic influence on human lives.
  • Allergy and chemistry: interrelations. If you’re looking for high school research proposal titles, analyze this topic. Every year more and more people suffer from allergies. Investigate what role chemistry and toxicants play in increased disease rates.
  • Respiratory toxicity: Chlorine . Chlorine is a toxicant that is exposed from plastic, paper, and chlorinated chemicals. Research the impact of Chlorine on health. How can organic home cleaning products usage lower risks of allergic rhinitis?
  • Anthropogenic chemicals in the contemporary world. We face anthropogenic chemicals everywhere in our daily life. Industrial, consumer, and agricultural activities cause chemicals emissions. Investigating this issue can help you build an outstanding title list for further research.
  • Toxicity profiling and its importance. Toxicity profiling can become a great research area for college and university students. Find out more about sample toxicity profiling and its purposes.
  • Chemistry of LSD.
  • Chemistry of synaptic transmitters.
  • Alchemy in relation to physics.
  • Study the potential usage of hybrid materials.
  • Discuss ways to develop novel catalysts through organics.
  • Atom movement and modeling of artificial molecules.
  • Heterogeneous environment: impact on subatomic particle transfer.
  • What are the developments in correcting cell function abnormalities?
  • Review safe alternatives for contamination procedures.
  • Explore the role of metal oxide catalysts in energy renewal.

Psychology Research Proposal Example Topics

In many ways, human mind remains a mystery. That’s probably one of the main reasons why psychology is such a fascinating subject. Do you want to dive into an uncharted territory or stay on the beaten track? You decide!

  • Importance of being knowledgeable about cognitive psychology. Exploring people’s thought processes can be among the most exciting cognitive psychology research proposal ideas.
  • The role of family in the socialization of an individual . Family plays a critical role in a person’s life, surrounding them from their childhood, providing them with food and shelter, and educating them. However, it’s important to know how a family socializes a child growing up.
  • The potential consequences of an untreated post-traumatic stress disorder . PTSD is a condition that may develop in an individual after a highly traumatic event. It needs treatment, or it may have a profoundly adverse influence on the life of that individual. It’s pivotal to realize how exactly PTSD may impact a person’s life, which makes this a good research topic for a paper.
  • The phenomenon of bullying in high schools from a psychological point of view . It’s unfortunate that in many contemporary high schools, bullying still poses a significant problem . It may have a serious adverse effect on the victims of bullying, so it’s pivotal to understand the reasons for bullying and the mechanisms that the victims may use to defend themselves.
  • Sociopathy (ASPD) and psychopathy: similarities and differences. The terms “sociopathy” and “psychopathy” may often be confused by non-professionals. However, important differences between the conditions exist, and it’s paramount to understand them well.
  • The psychological causes of employee resistance to change. Employees in various companies often tend to resist organizational change. Nevertheless, such resistance may sometimes have an adverse influence on organizational performance.
  • Empathy from an evolutionary point of view. It’s likely that empathy—the ability to comprehend what another person feels—is a trait that emerged in humans as a part of an evolutionary process. Examining the matter further from can be an excellent evolutionary psychology research proposal.
  • Jean Piaget’s contribution to psychology
  • Role of methodology in developmental research
  • Overcompensation of gender roles in single-mother households.
  • Little Albert experiment : where did it go wrong?
  • Freud and feminism: do they go together?
  • Is aromanticism a choice or not?
  • Discuss the trial-and-error method in choosing a therapy.
  • Explore the psychology behind Mandela’s effect.
  • Aging without children: what are the potential substitutes?
  • Pinker’s Better Angels thesis: unchanged violence perception.

Research Proposal Topics in Philosophy

What is good and evil? Philosophers have been asking questions like this for centuries. You can join their pondering with a research proposal topic from the list below.

  • Theodicy in the works of medieval philosophers. Theodicy, or the explanation of why God permits the existence of evil , was always a serious problem for religious philosophy. Medieval philosophers made numerous attempts to create a plausible theodicy. Whether they were successful or not can be demonstrated if the problem is selected as a research topic for your study.
  • Refutation of proofs of God’s existence in Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason . Medieval philosophers tried hard to prove that God exists, but their “proofs” were all similar, wrote Kant. The great German philosopher argued that there are only a few main types of such proofs, and all of them do not work. Choose this as a research topic for your paper and find out why.
  • Aristotelian Physics : verbalization of the “intuitively obvious.” Physics is a collection of works by Aristotle that deals with describing the physical world. Having no access to the experimental methods of science, Greek philosophers used reasoning, intuition, and speculation to build their theories. Aristotelian Physics is similar: it describes the physical world precisely as it intuitively appears to human senses.
  • The concept of political power in John Searle’s works. John Searle is a contemporary American philosopher-analyst whose works cover a broad range of topics, from a philosophy of language and mind to political philosophy. Researching his ideas about political power can prove quite fruitful.
  • The role of Aristotle’s works in the medieval Christian philosophy. Aristotle played a pivotal role in the development of medieval philosophy in Europe. Many philosophers of the Middle Ages based their philosophical theories and systems on what Aristotle had written. Studying Aristotelian influences on medieval philosophers is a great research topic.
  • Thomas More’s Utopia and Tommaso Campanella’s The City of the Sun : a comparison of two utopias. Utopia and The City of the Sun are some of the most famous utopian writings in the history of philosophy; in fact, the very genre was named after More’s work. Comparing the two works can prove an interesting endeavor.
  • Roger Bacon as the father of the experimental method in science. Roger Bacon is widely regarded as the person who introduced experimental method of inquiry into science. Investigate his works, as well as the context in which he worked. You will understand how Roger Bacon developed this idea if the proposed issue is chosen as a research topic for your study.
  • What is the meaning of life?
  • Ideas of philosophy and religion in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein .
  • How to deny the antecedent to enhance the argument.
  • Define the meaning of a “norm” in its modern sense.
  • Transhumanism: is digital immortality possible?
  • Study the notions of free will and regret.
  • Truthmaking: why are information gaps necessary?
  • What do philosophical zombies mean for anti-materialism?
  • Hume and miracles: a pro-religious justification.
  • Is noncombatant immunity a beacon for warfare ethics?

Research Proposal Topics in Development Studies

The evolution of states and nations is at the core of developmental studies. You can observe this process from various perspectives. These include political, social, or cultural points of view.

  • Education and success : interrelations. Explore the relations between success and education. Analyze the correlation between education, quality of life, and high living standards.
  • Human rights: the impact of non-government organizations and social movements. Investigate how various social movements and NGOs impact and promote human rights in different countries.
  • Conflicts and their impact on livelihood. The countries with conflicts are at risk of wars eruption, which will cause deaths and poor living conditions. Researching how conflicts must be addressed to avoid the problems mentioned above might be interesting if you’re searching for good project topics in development studies.
  • Waste management programs: how they influence society. Nowadays, there are plenty of waste management projects and programs. Research this issue and analyze its impact on society, environment, and economics. You can examine the Swedish experience and suggest your waste management program.
  • Women empowerment: how it contributes to women’s independence. Women empowerment programs significantly impact their autonomy and self-development. However, in some regions, women still have little or no access to education. Research how vocational education impacts empowering women in different societies.
  • Social institutions and economic development: interrelations. Social institutions play a significant role in ensuring the well-being of citizens. In your study, you can explore how various social institutions contribute to the economic development of the country.
  • The role of social movements in promoting equality. Minorities often face inequality and injustice, especially in countries where people have a diverse ethnic, religious, and economic background. In your research paper, highlight how various social movements ensure equality in a particular country.
  • Globalization and the country’s development. We live in a world where countries can’t survive without multilateral relations. Analyze how international relations influence the economic growth of a country.
  • Women leaders and their role in the country’s development. Many years women were not allowed to hold leadership positions. Even now female leaders often face criticism. In your research proposal, evaluate the perception of women leaders and their role in country’s development.
  • How does globalization affect public health?
  • Is microfinance in low-income communities a salvation?
  • What does aging imply for one’s income level?
  • Developing countries: what is in demand?
  • Study capital accumulation in Taiwanese households.
  • Review insurance risks in Sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Explore the saving habits of women in India.
  • What did the current generation inherit from the Great Depression era?
  • What are the reasons behind excessive urban bias in Latin America?
  • Is pollution in developing countries inevitable?
  • Caribbean states: external influences and countermeasure policies.

Medical Research Proposal Sample Topics

Thorough medical research is vital for human survival and wellbeing. The human body harbors many mysteries that need exploring. If you want to contribute to solving the puzzle, check out this section.

  • Addictions among young people: treatment and prevention. Provide ideas for the treatment of young people and ways to help them live a drug-free life. Suggest concepts to prevent addictions to video games , alcohol, drugs, etc.
  • Healthcare equality for minorities. Various minority groups may face inequality in healthcare. Analyze why the disparities occur for a certain minority group. Provide your suggestions on how to decrease the rates of under-insured minority representatives across the country.
  • Healthcare in rural areas. People in backcountry often have limited or no access to adequate treatment. You can investigate and provide suggestions on how to improve quality of healthcare in these areas.
  • Movement disorders: treatment. Neurologic conditions like Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s are destructive for both the patient and their family. Assess ways to treat these conditions and help patients.
  • Childhood obesity: prevention. According to the OECD report , one in six children suffers from obesity. Examine recent studies and suggest new concepts for obesity treatment and prevention.
  • Pediatric transplants: patient survival. In your proposal, you can examine new drugs aimed to minimize the side effects of the treatment regimens or analyze challenges in the treatment of transplanted patients.
  • Health education in high school . Numerous surveys show that more than 50% of parents are dissatisfied with the quality of health education their children receive at school. Suggest ideas to improve the quality of educational programs. What issues should they cover?
  • Stress and depression among the youth. Stress-related disorders are common among students. Recent studies show that almost 75% of children up to 18 years with anxiety also suffer from depression. You can investigate ways to prevent depression and anxiety disorders.
  • Mental health education. Examine the importance of proper mental health education in school, along with traditional health topics like abortions or drug abuse.
  • What are the safer routes of estrogen intake for risk groups?
  • Discuss disease prevention for pregnant women.
  • Review the pros and cons of revascularization in older patients.
  • Negligence of donor organs: who else can be potential patients?
  • The dark side of sports: diseases in athletes.
  • Assess the accuracy of noninvasive screening.
  • Delayed surgeries during the COVID-19 pandemic: a difficult choice.
  • Shift distribution in nursing : what are the adverse health outcomes?
  • Sub-fertility in men and women: similarities and differences.

Biology Research Proposal Sample Topics

Biology is not just about watching birds or inspecting plants. The science of life has much to offer. If you choose to write a paper on this subject, why not study microbiology? Or maybe epidemiology? There is much left to understand about the organisms inhabiting this planet.

  • Stem cell research: cloning. Examine the ethics of cloning and its effect on social development. Research what implications cloning may have on society.
  • Honey bees’ disappearance. Research causes of mass disappearance of bees. What impact can it have on the agricultural industry? Provide suggestions on how to prevent its negative consequences.
  • Cancer, stress, and treatment. Assess studies related to cancer and its causes. What role does stress play in cancer treatment? How can the atmosphere in hospitals help patients get better?
  • Heart health and stimulants: interrelations. Examine the correlation between stimulants and risks of heart diseases.
  • Diets and healthy food . Explore the most popular diets. How do they affect a person’s health? Are there any benefits of eating only certain vegetables and fruits?
  • Pregnancy and hormones. Investigate how maternal hormones in the first trimester impact the risk of breast cancer. It can be a great topic for your Ph.D. dissertation since there is a lack of research on this issue. Most research works are related to the later gestation period.
  • Human impact on marine life. Analyze how the Fukushima disaster influenced marine life and its effect on species population. What are the ways to protect rare or endangered species from radiation?
  • Drug medicine in pediatrics. Discuss the ethics of drug prescription on children. Explore ways to improve pediatric drug trials and development.
  • Indoor life and diseases : correlations. Modern life involves mostly indoor lifestyle. Analyze how it affects people’s ability to contract diseases. Is there a connection between the H1N1 flu epidemic and indoor life?
  • Genetic engineering: what is possible in 2024?
  • Discuss virus mutations and available means to prevent them.
  • Explore priors in relation to epidemics.
  • What biological factors influence a country’s economic stability?
  • Recovery of endangered species: what obstacles persist?
  • Discuss the possible health effects of living on another planet .
  • Study botanical structures in advanced artificial designs.
  • What are the adverse effects of bioremediation in suburban areas?
  • Rudimentary organs: which can be the next one?

Environmental Research Proposal Topics

Environmental disasters are happening at an unprecedented rate. Finding ways to combat them is an urgent mission. That’s why many countries made environmental issues a top priority on their political agendas.

  • World’s coral reefs: how to prevent destruction. Provide ideas for the environmental management of the countries that will help to decrease the reefs’ destruction .
  • Climate change: a scientific approach. Share your ideas on why governments criticize the Climate Change Agreement. Examine the Paris Climate Agreement and point out its weaknesses.
  • LED lights and their role in environmental protection. LED lights become more and more popular. You can find them everywhere: in TVs, computers, and even cars. Point out why LED light bulbs are better than the traditional one and how they impact the environment.
  • Acid rains and endangered species . Pollution is a significant issue, and one of the popular environmental proposal topics. Analyze the impact of acid rain on marine life and wildlife.
  • Clothing industry and their impact on water contamination. Production of one T-shirt requires over 2,700 liters of water . Provide suggestions on how fashion trendsetters can impact the production of clothing. Suggest how upcycling programs can reduce water pollution.
  • Alternative energy and transportation. Investigate whether alternative fuel vehicles can replace traditional ones. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative energy.
  • Fukushima disaster, Arkhangelsk explosion, and Chernobyl. Examine these three disasters: what role did a human factor play? Provide your ideas on how to prevent similar tragedies.
  • Radon: how to protect families from its impact? Radon is a radioactive gas that can enter peoples’ homes through cracks in the home’s foundation. Investigate its effects on health and suggest concepts aimed to protect families from radon.
  • Rainforests and their ecosystem. It’s a widely known fact that Amazon rainforests play a significant role in life on our planet. Assess the ecosystem of the rainforest and suggest methods aimed at rainforests restoration.
  • How does invasive grass impact plants in arid lands?
  • How do we regulate wildfire’s naturally beneficial functions?
  • Review riparian forests’ role in carbon regulation.
  • Explore the human factor in phenology-related disruptions.
  • Describe successful watershed initiatives and their features.
  • How can we replicate temperature tolerance in fish?
  • Assess the environmental value of rangelands compared to other areas.
  • Thriving ecosystems : what prevents their degradation?
  • Modern species extinction: what happens when humans are uninvolved?
  • Review existing instruments in predicting climate variability.

Research Proposal Topics in International Relations

Thanks to globalization, humanity is more interconnected than ever. How do various states, NGOs, and other global actors interact with each other? That’s the critical question of international relations. This subject contains aspects of economics, politics, and law.

  • Female political leaders and their interaction specifics. Traditions inspire many political factors. Recently, women started bringing something new to it. For example, they eased the tension, especially in formal interactions.
  • Representing a nation’s interest: who is the target audience? A country is at the most united while interacting with other nations. It has to present a consistent position. However, it doesn’t always reflect what the majority wants.
  • The socio-economic system’s impact on foreign relations. Currently, there is a clash between two opposite views on production. Their differences might pose problems to cooperation.
  • Wealth discrepancies: developing countries adopting free market approach. Many countries in the world currently require financial help. Providing it may lead to dependency on more prosperous partners. How can they adapt to capitalism?
  • Free-trade organizations and their underlining political potential. Some people claim that countries in unions benefit only economically. However, they also build strong relations in other spheres. Besides, their membership may influence the union’s decision-making.
  • State sovereignty : the extent of one’s independence. The countries involved in global cooperation are considered sovereign. You can debate whether we can say it about the countries dependent on others.
  • The United Nation’s recent successes and failures. The organization is an influential actor on a global scale. It’s responsible for mitigating conflicts and disasters. However, not all of its initiatives are fruitful, such as Sudan.
  • A personality in foreign policies: possible negative outcomes. Branches of the government cooperate on the unified state agenda. However, political leaders may eclipse this effort. For instance, their position can be unrelated to the country’s actual needs.
  • Nationalism among global problems: advantages and risks . Currently, many issues require international cooperation . Still, some solutions may be harmful to particular countries.
  • Debate takeover’s relevance to modern global discourse. Throughout history, countries were driven by their desire to conquer. See if this approach has transformed or outlived its purpose.
  • Analyze barriers to nuclear disarming in the US.
  • How do global companies affect native populations?
  • What’s the impact of the liberal approach on long-lasting conflicts?
  • Analyze favoritism in global relations.
  • Discuss equality issues in smaller countries.
  • Fake news in diplomacy and potential issues.
  • Write about human rights promotion in autocracies.
  • How does xenophobia influence diplomatic relations?
  • Economic sanctions: how do they punish the population?
  • Pick a local issue and discuss international responses to it.

Topics for a Research Proposal: Economics

It’s nice to have goods and valuables. But it’s also relevant to know how to properly handle them. Economics looks into how people produce, consume, and otherwise interact with resources.

  • Subtle ways of violating workers’ rights. A government may present itself as a supporter of the working class. Study how actions such as prioritizing corporate interests reveal their real goals.
  • Minimum wage equivalents in the freelance setting. A commission-based job has many advantages. However, the drawbacks are also numerous. Review them in your proposal.
  • Income growth: which groups might be missing? The overall tendency for people is to earn more. Yet, it’s not always the case for minorities. See what the reasons behind it are.
  • Newer industries fearing the power of unions. The benefits of labor unions are well-known. It includes better working environments and payment. But you may argue that corporations consider unions a nuisance.
  • Homelessness: are we not addressing the problem’s root? Some communities have spent their budgets on making common spots for homeless people inaccessible. Yet, the underlying causes of this condition remain unresolved.
  • Green proposals and initiatives: what are the reasons for rejection? Politicians have been offering plans to alleviate ecological damages. Yet, they are criticized by the representatives of the affected economic sectors.
  • Federal aid: issues with transparency and legislature. Local and state governments manage their finances independently. Still, they remain under restrictions. It forces them to rely on higher-level support during difficult times.
  • The fiduciary rule: who wants it revised? This rule aims to protect the customers’ interests in choosing investment plans. Discuss why some stakeholders view the initiative as an obstacle.
  • Region-based wage increases: a potential temporary solution. The solution’s ultimate goal is to influence the federal wage. That’s why its proponents find regional proposals distracting. You can argue that they could work as a transitional mechanism.
  • The US and migrant labor global standards. The issue with immigrants persists. Amid the crisis, select states strive to improve the situation. Does the federal level ignore international regulations?
  • Wage suppression: what factors lead to it?
  • Recent trade agreements’ implications for industry workers.
  • How did COVID-19 affect farmworkers?
  • Who are the potential benefactors for infrastructure investments?
  • How do massive job losses impact state economies?
  • Decreased economic growth: what could accelerate it?
  • Why are pensions the central drawing aspect of a teacher’s profession ?
  • New taxation suggestions: will the rich suffer?
  • What should the fiscal policy target?
  • Tipping regulation policies and related issues.

Criminal Justice Research Proposal Topics

Criminal justice deals with the identification, judgment, and punishment of criminals. It encompasses three spheres: law enforcement, the courts, and corrections.

  • Crime and emergencies. Is it true that a lot of crimes are committed during public emergencies? If so, what can be done to prevent them?
  • The relationship between the police and people of different ethnicities. Can diverse police departments and body cameras prevent police violence? In what ways does the perception of police officers affect public safety?
  • The efficiency of drug courts. What is the long-term effect of drug courts participation? Do they help or hurt people? What improvements can be made?
  • The impact of parents’ incarceration on children. Children whose parents are imprisoned are indeed more likely to develop psychological problems. How can that be prevented? Who should take care of the children?
  • How does gender influence criminal punishment? Men are more likely to get the death penalty. Why? Are women mistreated in court?
  • Can gun control reduce crimes?
  • How can drug trafficking be prevented?
  • Can the death penalty ever be a fair punishment?
  • Will the legalization of prostitution cause more crimes or reduce them?

Qualitative Research Proposal Sample Topics

Are you more of a hands-on student? Does conducting interviews and fieldwork sound exciting to you? Then writing a proposal for qualitative research is the right thing for you.

  • Beauty standards: women’s perception of themselves and others. The definition of beauty exists in society as an unspoken rule. Not everyone is fortunate to fit it. What does it entail?
  • Feminism as an all-encompassing movement: opposing perspectives. Feminism has evolved from being about women to covering all gender rights. However, anti-feminist and notions continue to exist. See why some people insist on creating separate campaigns.
  • The silent majority in non-democratic countries. Many such countries have a high population that could overthrow the regime. However, they seem content with the situation. Find a logical explanation for this phenomenon.
  • Likes and reposts: how do they affect people? Social media are not just spots for sharing and discussing topics. They’re also about fame. Certain users make it their mission to achieve it.
  • The allure of foreign media. Anime and Korean pop music have found success in the US. Discuss what makes them appealing to the audience.
  • Successful women: what are their resilience factors? Some industries discriminate against their older female workers. However, opposite examples are also common. Demonstrate how a woman can stay on top at any age.
  • The adult industry: how should we regulate it? People involved in the sex industry are often subject to abuse. The government makes attempts to prevent it. Would it be reasonable to ban the sector completely?
  • Counter urbanization: why do people leave cities with opportunities? A new trend is moving into the countryside away from noise and pollution. Discuss what makes former city-dwellers make such a choice.
  • Modern readers and their habits. People reading less is a topical issue. Analyze how people’s interactions with books have evolved.
  • How hesitant decision-making affects abusive households . When abuse happens in a family, the sufferers often will trust experts to resolve the problem. But sometimes, the process can become complicated.
  • What can people do to save the marine life?
  • Study race-based differences in accounts of police forces.
  • How do you convince a child with disabilities not to give up?
  • Research what happens when children’s favorite teacher retires.
  • Review the methods of late-life language learning .
  • What are the main obstacles when parting with one’s first job ?
  • How are people with a Ph.D. degree perceived by society?
  • Overweight people: what helps them the most?
  • Subcultures of the past: are they coming back?
  • Dealing with previously undiscovered diseases in children.

Quantitative Research Proposal Topics to Write About

If math doesn’t scare you, quantitative research might be what you’re looking for. It’s suitable for everything: from agriculture to microeconomics. Quantifying data collection and analysis is at the heart of this research method.

  • Women’s contribution to the US economy . Since gaining equal rights, women started to work and buy goods actively. Assess the importance of their presence in the main economic sectors.
  • The limited coverage of alternative energy sources. The world has known safer power generation means for years. Still, their usage remains limited. Discuss whether expansion is possible.
  • Public security in democracies and modern autocracies. Security is one of our primary values. Sometimes people are willing to sacrifice their freedoms for it. But does it mean that less democratic countries are more secure?
  • Cybercrimes: their rise and potential damage scope . Digitalization comes at a price. We can see it with criminal activity on the Internet. Discuss the forms of such activities.
  • Online information sources vs. traditional media . Today, people have more news outlets than ever. Children start using social media from an early age. Yet, TV and newspapers might still have a large audience. What are their advantages?
  • Violence is on the decline: myth or reality? The current time is relatively peaceful compared to earlier periods. Yet, violent incidents still happen. You can debate the trend’s universal nature in your paper.
  • Natural disasters: does human activity affect their frequency? Earthquakes, landslides, and hurricanes have always posed a danger to people. Recently, they became more frequent than before. Is humanity involved in causing them?
  • Smartphones as a catalyst for local decision-making. Today almost everyone owns a multi-functional mobile device. In what case can their use be an administrative issue?
  • Social justice movements and feasible workplace outcomes. The recent years have seen several positive upheavals concerning women and minority groups. Evaluate their impact on employee discrimination around the world.
  • Space exploration and environment: misguided priorities? Some believe that saving the Earth is hopeless. Thus, colonizing other planets is the solution. Could the money spent on those technologies have solved global issues?
  • Discuss the millennials’ inclination towards volunteering.
  • What’s the impact of streaming on the music industry ?
  • Study cryptocurrencies and related tax evasion issues.
  • Review recent trajectories in US media censorship.
  • How successful are crowdfunding websites?
  • Is it reasonable to choose homeschooling to avoid school shootings?
  • LGBTQ’s mainstream media portrayal: a quantitative analysis.
  • How do oil spills damage marine life?
  • Does autocorrect function affect literacy levels in students?
  • Assess satisfaction with medical services against their price.

Easy Research Proposal Topics for Students

A research doesn’t have to be about rocket science. Easy topics can be just as effective. Check out our collection of simple research proposal topics:

  • Height reduction in children and older adults. Many people think that senior citizens are shorter than other age groups. Are all demographics affected by vertical changes?
  • The Earth spins, but no one feels it. Some people still believe that the planet is flat. They argue that it’s so because we do not feel any movement. In fact, the sphere has certain features that prevent it. What are they?
  • What is the mechanism of vaccination? Some fear being vaccinated and prefer contracting viruses to develop immunity. It comes from not entirely understanding how vaccines work. How do they offer safer protection?
  • Evolution of wings and humanity’s dreams of flying. People have always dreamed of conquering the sky. Evolution deprived them of such a skill. The dinosaur’s direct descendants were rewarded instead: common birds.
  • Color perception in animals: humans vs. pets. Humans can see the world in all its glory. Yet, other creatures are not necessarily capable of that. Even cats’ and dogs’ color perception is limited.
  • Time travel: is it only possible in fiction? Many movies and TV shows use the concept of time traveling. Perhaps the future will make it possible, but under what conditions?
  • How did the Solar System’s structure change over time? At some point, the Earth had eight accompanying planets. Later, the classification was overhauled. The system expanded, but it cost Pluto its planet status. What other changes occurred throughout history?
  • The extent of regeneration: cells and organs. Humans are surprisingly capable of recovering from wounds. Does it also extend to whole organs?
  • Current issues with space exploration and colonization. Decades ago, humanity managed to put people on the Moon. Since then, other space advancements have been made. Why weren’t they on the same scale?
  • The origins of the modern-day Western calendar. Christian nations live according to the numerical system allegedly starting from Christ’s birth. It also includes seven days based on his life, although it predates him by long.
  • Salt in tears and blood: is it the same?
  • Assess noise sensitivity during sleep and intensive work.
  • What determines the uniqueness of fingerprints?
  • Alternative energy generators and how they work.
  • What determines if a smell is unpleasant?
  • How do optical illusions work ?
  • Why do people’s preferences and hobbies change with age?
  • What’s the purpose of bird songs?
  • Dangerous wildfires: how much is humanity at fault?
  • Animal extinction: potential impacts on other species.

If you still want to find some more topics, you are welcome to check science research proposal topics on our blog to make your academic writing life much easier.

📝   How to Write a Project Proposal

Before you start working on the proposal itself, it’s pivotal to understand the standard proposal writing format.

Every academic paper has defined rules to follow, so let’s take a look at the research proposal structure.

Components of Research Proposal

Typically, a research proposal consists of a title, abstract, introduction, research methodology, research results, discussion, ethical considerations, and references.

At the beginning stage, you should choose an interesting proposal title to investigate. It may sound unbelievable, but a carefully chosen title can do half the job in persuading your audience.

Essay title tips list.

In this article, you’ll find research proposal topics in many different areas. It’s always easier to choose one if you have a list of proposal topics to browse. Once you’ve chosen your topic, make your research proposal title catchy and relevant.

Next, every research proposal needs an abstract. This part of your paper has a limited word count, typically between 100 and 300 words. If you want to convince your research committee in just a few lines, you should take this stage very seriously.

What to include in an abstract list.

The abstract must summarize your research proposal, so it’s better to write it after the rest of your paper is done.

Introduction

This is a standard part of every paper, but different documents include various elements in their introductory texts.

The essay introduction must answer 3 essential question for the reader.

A research proposal introduction should contain the following three parts:

The audience needs to know what other authors have discovered when studying your topic. This will help them to understand the topic’s importance. .
To examine your topic thoroughly, you should answer research questions. By finding good research questions, you’ll convince the audience of the importance of your research.
You should define the approach you’ll use to investigate your research questions. You can choose between two options: Always explain why you have chosen this particular approach and how it’s relevant to your research question.

Research Methodology

When writing a research proposal, you need to describe the methods you’ve used. It will make your work more credible and allow the readers to evaluate it properly.

Choose your research methodology.

Your methodology helps you carry out your research. It serves as a basis for any academic paper, and it’s closely connected with your research question.

Research Results

You may be wondering how you can write the research proposal results when you haven’t actually conducted the research yet.

Well, don’t worry—you’re not expected to draw final conclusions at this stage. Instead, just try to analyze what research proposal results you’ll get after your project is done and how those results will impact your field of study or the world at large.

Two ways of presenting and organizing the research results.

This is an important part of your paper because it explains to the research committee whether or not your results will be worth the effort. Try to persuade the audience that you can get important results, but never promise too much.

Research Discussion

It’s okay to face some problems with your research, whether it’s trouble getting an interview from a foreign professor or having the funds to complete an expensive experiment.

Just don’t try to hide from the research committee the things you can’t do for your project. Instead, discuss them with your committee so they can have the whole picture and give you helpful advice on your research. Who knows—maybe one of them can introduce you to this foreign professor!

Ethical Considerations

If your research is conducted on people or animals, you should mention how you’re going to collect your data. Make sure your research proposal methodology doesn’t conflict with ethical guidelines.

References and Appendices

No research paper can be written without reading and studying dozens of sources. You site them all in the References section . If you have any questionnaires for your research proposal or any other documents related to your investigation, include them all in the appendices .

Examples of items in appendices.

Outline of a Research Proposal: Step by Step

STEP #1. Write the abstract.

How should you write your research proposal abstract? Explain the primary problem you want to explore and tell why it’s important:

What can your investigation bring?
What will you use to find answers to your research questions?
What do you expect your exploration to result in?

The next step is writing a research methodology section.

STEP #2. Introduce your methodological approach.

To choose a methodological approach, you need to analyze your research question. Do it from the following points of view:

Is your research question rooted in ?
What are you going to collect and analyze? It could be numerical or textual data. You can use available information, or collect it yourself.
What are you going to use?
What fits the best when answering your research question?

STEP #3. Introduce your data collection methods.

Depending on how you answered the previous questions, choose which types of data you will need for your research:

  • Primary data that you collect yourself.
  • Secondary data , already available and presented by someone else.

Here are the main methods of primary data collection:

  • Surveys are perfect for assignments where you need to gather information from a group of people. It can be done in the form of a questionnaire or as an interview.
  • Observation is used when you need to see how something occurs in natural conditions.
  • An experiment is a set of procedures conducted in order to test a theory.

Secondary data is usually obtained from books and articles. The main method here is the literature review , where you analyze and evaluate information from the source.

STEP #4. Describe your methods of analysis.

The methods of analysis can be qualitative or quantitative.

Multiple linear regression.

  • T-tests estimate the difference between the means of two groups (e.g., populations of two cities)
  • Simple linear regression analysis estimates the relationship between two variables (e.g., amount of rainfall and crop growth)
  • Multiple regression analysis estimates the relationships between one dependent and several independent variables (e.g., pneumonia in people of different ages)
  • Content analysis (e.g., the use of certain words in texts)
  • Thematic analysis (e.g., to identify common topics in texts)
  • Discourse analysis (e.g., to analyze the text in relation to its social context)

STEP #5. Justify your choices.

Here you should explain why you’ve chosen a particular methodology for your project. Show why your approach is the most appropriate one, and why other methods are not suitable. Here’s the list of the most common disadvantages:

  • T-tests become unreliable when the normal distribution of data is violated.
  • In simple linear regression , the results are often over-simplified.
  • Multiple regression analysis can sometimes use incomplete data.
  • Content analysis can disregard important nuances.
  • Thematic and discourse analysis can be too subjective.

Research Proposal Cover Page & Format

Every academic paper has defined rules to follow, so let’s take a look at the research proposal writing format.

Research Proposal Title Page

The front page of a proposal includes the following:

  • Your name ;
  • Your project’s title ;
  • Name of the institution or organization you’re applying to;
  • Name and contact information of your research’s supervisor ;
  • Submission date .

Formatting and References

Remember to make a reference to every article or website that you used to write your research proposal, and only use credible sources for your study, such as books and peer-reviewed articles. You are usually required to cite your sources in one of the existing citing styles, such as APA or MLA .

Research Proposal Timeline

A timeline is a plan that indicates the milestones of your research and the dates at which you could realistically achieve these milestones. Time schedules are especially important for lengthy researches.

Here are the milestones that you can include in your timeline:

  • Research proposal completion
  • Literature review
  • Conducting experiments
  • Data analysis
  • First draft completion
  • Rewriting and editing
  • Final draft.

It’s handy to have two versions of the same timeline. First, make a shorter one to include in your research proposal. Then, write a more detailed version for your personal reference.

📄 Undergraduate Research Proposal Sample

Finally, we’ve prepared a research proposal example (MLA format) to help you better understand your task. Feel free to download it below.

This study examines the effect of mobile educational applications on pre-school children and their academic achievements. The research was conducted by studying and analyzing the information provided by similar previously conducted researches. The interpretive methods, which focus on understanding a phenomenon comprehensively, and secondary data collection, were used for this research.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this article. Have any interesting questions or ideas? Let us know in the comments!

Learn more on this topic:

  • Research Proposal Help: Amazing Resources, Tips & Tools
  • Best Research Proposal: How to Write, Sample and Tips
  • The Importance of a Research Proposal: Purpose and Advantages

🔗  References

  • Research Process, A Step-by-Step Approach: Nash Library & Student Learning Commons at Gannon University
  • How to Prepare an Annotated Bibliography: LibGuides at Cornell University
  • Effective Writing: Grammar Rules
  • Making an Outline, Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper: Research Guides at University of Southern California
  • A Guide for Proposal Writing: The National Science Foundation
  • What’s the Best Business Proposal Format: Bplans, Palo Alto Software, Inc.
  • How to Write a Business Proposal, A Basic Guide: The Balance Small Business
  • How to Write Your Research Proposal: University of Westminster, London
  • Medical Students Topics: Medscape
  • Psychology Research Paper Topics, 50+ Great Ideas: Kendra Cherry, Verywell Mind
  • Topics: HISTORY, A&E Television Networks, LLC.
  • 10 Best Proposal Examples [With Critical Critiques]: Mary Cullen, Instructional Solution
  • Free Business Proposal Templates: Proposify
  • Writing Your Research ProposaL: Oxford University Department for Continuing Education
  • Writing a Good PhD Research Proposal: FindAPhD
  • Nick Bostrom’s Home Page: Nick Bostrom
  • Research Priorities: Minerva Research Initiative
  • Generate Topic Ideas Quickly and Easily: Online Research Library Questia
  • Faculty Research Topics: USC Viterbi, School of Engineering
  • Writing Research Proposals: University of California, Berkeley
  • Finding a project: Washington State University
  • Undergraduate Sample Research Topics: Political Science: Western Michigan University
  • World History: Britannica
  • Literature Topics and Research: Purdue University
  • Most Downloaded Journal of Business Research Articles: Elsevier
  • Recent Research Topics on Management: Research Gate
  • Business Administration: Academia.edu
  • Sample Business Proposals: Proposal Kit
  • Political Science Research and Methods: Cambridge University Press
  • Articles: Frontiers of Business Research in China: Springer Open
  • Management Science/Operations Research: Emerald.com
  • Working Knowledge: Business Research for Business Leaders: Harvard Business School
  • Education Research: EdSurge
  • Special Education: American Institutes for Research
  • Special Education Research Programs: US Department of Education
  • Early Childhood Education Research: Australian Council for Education Research
  • Research Areas: Department of Chemistry: Stanford University
  • Research: Chemistry World
  • Metaphysics and Epistemology: PhilPapers
  • Research Programs in Development Studies: Princeton University
  • Research Articles: The BMJ
  • Medical Research News: Medical Xpress
  • Nature Research: Nature.com
  • Research Topics: Natural Resources and Environment: The University of Arizona
  • Areas of Research: Economic Policy Institute
  • International Affairs: RAND
  • International Relations: SAGE Journals
  • Quantitative Research Topics: Frontiers In
  • Articles on Curious Kids: The Conversation
  • Study of Impacts of Global Warming on Climate Change: Rise in Sea Level and Disaster Frequency: IntechOpen
  • Research Methodology: Open.edu
  • Background Research: Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
  • Background Research: LibGuides at University of Connecticut
  • Data Analysis: The Office of Research Integrity: HHS.gov
  • Five Principles for Research Ethics: American Psychological Association
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Hello, I am an undergraduate student in Addis abeba university I want a proposal for construction and technology management

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113 Great Research Paper Topics

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One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

  • Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
  • Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
  • How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
  • How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
  • How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
  • How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

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Current Events

  • What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
  • How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
  • How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
  • Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
  • What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
  • What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
  • How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
  • How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
  • How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
  • What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
  • What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
  • What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
  • Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies  (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
  • Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
  • Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
  • Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
  • Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
  • Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
  • How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
  • What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
  • Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
  • What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
  • How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
  • What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
  • Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
  • Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
  • Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
  • How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
  • Should graduate students be able to form unions?

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  • What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
  • How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
  • Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
  • Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
  • How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
  • How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
  • Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
  • Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
  • Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
  • Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
  • Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
  • Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
  • Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
  • Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
  • Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
  • What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
  • How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
  • How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
  • What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
  • What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
  • Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
  • What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
  • What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
  • Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
  • Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
  • How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
  • Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
  • What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
  • How does stress affect the body?
  • Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
  • What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
  • Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
  • How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
  • What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
  • What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
  • Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
  • What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
  • What were the causes of the Civil War?
  • How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
  • Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
  • What caused Hitler's rise to power?
  • Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
  • What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
  • How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
  • What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

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  • Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
  • Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
  • How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
  • How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
  • What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
  • What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
  • How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

  • How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
  • How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
  • Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
  • Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
  • How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
  • How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
  • What are the pros and cons of fracking?
  • What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
  • What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
  • How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
  • Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
  • Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
  • What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
  • What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
  • How are black holes created?
  • Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
  • How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
  • Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
  • How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
  • Has social media made people more or less connected?
  • What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
  • Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
  • What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
  • How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
  • When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
  • Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

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How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

What's Next?

Are you also learning about dynamic equilibrium in your science class? We break this sometimes tricky concept down so it's easy to understand in our complete guide to dynamic equilibrium .

Thinking about becoming a nurse practitioner? Nurse practitioners have one of the fastest growing careers in the country, and we have all the information you need to know about what to expect from nurse practitioner school .

Want to know the fastest and easiest ways to convert between Fahrenheit and Celsius? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to the best ways to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit (or vice versa).

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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proposed research topic

How To Write A Research Proposal

A Straightforward How-To Guide (With Examples)

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | August 2019 (Updated April 2023)

Writing up a strong research proposal for a dissertation or thesis is much like a marriage proposal. It’s a task that calls on you to win somebody over and persuade them that what you’re planning is a great idea. An idea they’re happy to say ‘yes’ to. This means that your dissertation proposal needs to be   persuasive ,   attractive   and well-planned. In this post, I’ll show you how to write a winning dissertation proposal, from scratch.

Before you start:

– Understand exactly what a research proposal is – Ask yourself these 4 questions

The 5 essential ingredients:

  • The title/topic
  • The introduction chapter
  • The scope/delimitations
  • Preliminary literature review
  • Design/ methodology
  • Practical considerations and risks 

What Is A Research Proposal?

The research proposal is literally that: a written document that communicates what you propose to research, in a concise format. It’s where you put all that stuff that’s spinning around in your head down on to paper, in a logical, convincing fashion.

Convincing   is the keyword here, as your research proposal needs to convince the assessor that your research is   clearly articulated   (i.e., a clear research question) ,   worth doing   (i.e., is unique and valuable enough to justify the effort), and   doable   within the restrictions you’ll face (time limits, budget, skill limits, etc.). If your proposal does not address these three criteria, your research won’t be approved, no matter how “exciting” the research idea might be.

PS – if you’re completely new to proposal writing, we’ve got a detailed walkthrough video covering two successful research proposals here . 

Free Webinar: How To Write A Research Proposal

How do I know I’m ready?

Before starting the writing process, you need to   ask yourself 4 important questions .  If you can’t answer them succinctly and confidently, you’re not ready – you need to go back and think more deeply about your dissertation topic .

You should be able to answer the following 4 questions before starting your dissertation or thesis research proposal:

  • WHAT is my main research question? (the topic)
  • WHO cares and why is this important? (the justification)
  • WHAT data would I need to answer this question, and how will I analyse it? (the research design)
  • HOW will I manage the completion of this research, within the given timelines? (project and risk management)

If you can’t answer these questions clearly and concisely,   you’re not yet ready   to write your research proposal – revisit our   post on choosing a topic .

If you can, that’s great – it’s time to start writing up your dissertation proposal. Next, I’ll discuss what needs to go into your research proposal, and how to structure it all into an intuitive, convincing document with a linear narrative.

The 5 Essential Ingredients

Research proposals can vary in style between institutions and disciplines, but here I’ll share with you a   handy 5-section structure   you can use. These 5 sections directly address the core questions we spoke about earlier, ensuring that you present a convincing proposal. If your institution already provides a proposal template, there will likely be substantial overlap with this, so you’ll still get value from reading on.

For each section discussed below, make sure you use headers and sub-headers (ideally, numbered headers) to help the reader navigate through your document, and to support them when they need to revisit a previous section. Don’t just present an endless wall of text, paragraph after paragraph after paragraph…

Top Tip:   Use MS Word Styles to format headings. This will allow you to be clear about whether a sub-heading is level 2, 3, or 4. Additionally, you can view your document in ‘outline view’ which will show you only your headings. This makes it much easier to check your structure, shift things around and make decisions about where a section needs to sit. You can also generate a 100% accurate table of contents using Word’s automatic functionality.

proposed research topic

Ingredient #1 – Topic/Title Header

Your research proposal’s title should be your main research question in its simplest form, possibly with a sub-heading providing basic details on the specifics of the study. For example:

“Compliance with equality legislation in the charity sector: a study of the ‘reasonable adjustments’ made in three London care homes”

As you can see, this title provides a clear indication of what the research is about, in broad terms. It paints a high-level picture for the first-time reader, which gives them a taste of what to expect.   Always aim for a clear, concise title . Don’t feel the need to capture every detail of your research in your title – your proposal will fill in the gaps.

Need a helping hand?

proposed research topic

Ingredient #2 – Introduction

In this section of your research proposal, you’ll expand on what you’ve communicated in the title, by providing a few paragraphs which offer more detail about your research topic. Importantly, the focus here is the   topic   – what will you research and why is that worth researching? This is not the place to discuss methodology, practicalities, etc. – you’ll do that later.

You should cover the following:

  • An overview of the   broad area   you’ll be researching – introduce the reader to key concepts and language
  • An explanation of the   specific (narrower) area   you’ll be focusing, and why you’ll be focusing there
  • Your research   aims   and   objectives
  • Your   research question (s) and sub-questions (if applicable)

Importantly, you should aim to use short sentences and plain language – don’t babble on with extensive jargon, acronyms and complex language. Assume that the reader is an intelligent layman – not a subject area specialist (even if they are). Remember that the   best writing is writing that can be easily understood   and digested. Keep it simple.

The introduction section serves to expand on the  research topic – what will you study and why is that worth dedicating time and effort to?

Note that some universities may want some extra bits and pieces in your introduction section. For example, personal development objectives, a structural outline, etc. Check your brief to see if there are any other details they expect in your proposal, and make sure you find a place for these.

Ingredient #3 – Scope

Next, you’ll need to specify what the scope of your research will be – this is also known as the delimitations . In other words, you need to make it clear what you will be covering and, more importantly, what you won’t be covering in your research. Simply put, this is about ring fencing your research topic so that you have a laser-sharp focus.

All too often, students feel the need to go broad and try to address as many issues as possible, in the interest of producing comprehensive research. Whilst this is admirable, it’s a mistake. By tightly refining your scope, you’ll enable yourself to   go deep   with your research, which is what you need to earn good marks. If your scope is too broad, you’re likely going to land up with superficial research (which won’t earn marks), so don’t be afraid to narrow things down.

Ingredient #4 – Literature Review

In this section of your research proposal, you need to provide a (relatively) brief discussion of the existing literature. Naturally, this will not be as comprehensive as the literature review in your actual dissertation, but it will lay the foundation for that. In fact, if you put in the effort at this stage, you’ll make your life a lot easier when it’s time to write your actual literature review chapter.

There are a few things you need to achieve in this section:

  • Demonstrate that you’ve done your reading and are   familiar with the current state of the research   in your topic area.
  • Show that   there’s a clear gap   for your specific research – i.e., show that your topic is sufficiently unique and will add value to the existing research.
  • Show how the existing research has shaped your thinking regarding   research design . For example, you might use scales or questionnaires from previous studies.

When you write up your literature review, keep these three objectives front of mind, especially number two (revealing the gap in the literature), so that your literature review has a   clear purpose and direction . Everything you write should be contributing towards one (or more) of these objectives in some way. If it doesn’t, you need to ask yourself whether it’s truly needed.

Top Tip:  Don’t fall into the trap of just describing the main pieces of literature, for example, “A says this, B says that, C also says that…” and so on. Merely describing the literature provides no value. Instead, you need to   synthesise   it, and use it to address the three objectives above.

 If you put in the effort at the proposal stage, you’ll make your life a lot easier when its time to write your actual literature review chapter.

Ingredient #5 – Research Methodology

Now that you’ve clearly explained both your intended research topic (in the introduction) and the existing research it will draw on (in the literature review section), it’s time to get practical and explain exactly how you’ll be carrying out your own research. In other words, your research methodology.

In this section, you’ll need to   answer two critical questions :

  • How   will you design your research? I.e., what research methodology will you adopt, what will your sample be, how will you collect data, etc.
  • Why   have you chosen this design? I.e., why does this approach suit your specific research aims, objectives and questions?

In other words, this is not just about explaining WHAT you’ll be doing, it’s also about explaining WHY. In fact, the   justification is the most important part , because that justification is how you demonstrate a good understanding of research design (which is what assessors want to see).

Some essential design choices you need to cover in your research proposal include:

  • Your intended research philosophy (e.g., positivism, interpretivism or pragmatism )
  • What methodological approach you’ll be taking (e.g., qualitative , quantitative or mixed )
  • The details of your sample (e.g., sample size, who they are, who they represent, etc.)
  • What data you plan to collect (i.e. data about what, in what form?)
  • How you plan to collect it (e.g., surveys , interviews , focus groups, etc.)
  • How you plan to analyse it (e.g., regression analysis, thematic analysis , etc.)
  • Ethical adherence (i.e., does this research satisfy all ethical requirements of your institution, or does it need further approval?)

This list is not exhaustive – these are just some core attributes of research design. Check with your institution what level of detail they expect. The “ research onion ” by Saunders et al (2009) provides a good summary of the various design choices you ultimately need to make – you can   read more about that here .

Don’t forget the practicalities…

In addition to the technical aspects, you will need to address the   practical   side of the project. In other words, you need to explain   what resources you’ll need   (e.g., time, money, access to equipment or software, etc.) and how you intend to secure these resources. You need to show that your project is feasible, so any “make or break” type resources need to already be secured. The success or failure of your project cannot depend on some resource which you’re not yet sure you have access to.

Another part of the practicalities discussion is   project and risk management . In other words, you need to show that you have a clear project plan to tackle your research with. Some key questions to address:

  • What are the timelines for each phase of your project?
  • Are the time allocations reasonable?
  • What happens if something takes longer than anticipated (risk management)?
  • What happens if you don’t get the response rate you expect?

A good way to demonstrate that you’ve thought this through is to include a Gantt chart and a risk register (in the appendix if word count is a problem). With these two tools, you can show that you’ve got a clear, feasible plan, and you’ve thought about and accounted for the potential risks.

Gantt chart

Tip – Be honest about the potential difficulties – but show that you are anticipating solutions and workarounds. This is much more impressive to an assessor than an unrealistically optimistic proposal which does not anticipate any challenges whatsoever.

Final Touches: Read And Simplify

The final step is to edit and proofread your proposal – very carefully. It sounds obvious, but all too often poor editing and proofreading ruin a good proposal. Nothing is more off-putting for an assessor than a poorly edited, typo-strewn document. It sends the message that you either do not pay attention to detail, or just don’t care. Neither of these are good messages. Put the effort into editing and proofreading your proposal (or pay someone to do it for you) – it will pay dividends.

When you’re editing, watch out for ‘academese’. Many students can speak simply, passionately and clearly about their dissertation topic – but become incomprehensible the moment they turn the laptop on. You are not required to write in any kind of special, formal, complex language when you write academic work. Sure, there may be technical terms, jargon specific to your discipline, shorthand terms and so on. But, apart from those,   keep your written language very close to natural spoken language   – just as you would speak in the classroom. Imagine that you are explaining your project plans to your classmates or a family member. Remember, write for the intelligent layman, not the subject matter experts. Plain-language, concise writing is what wins hearts and minds – and marks!

Let’s Recap: Research Proposal 101

And there you have it – how to write your dissertation or thesis research proposal, from the title page to the final proof. Here’s a quick recap of the key takeaways:

  • The purpose of the research proposal is to   convince   – therefore, you need to make a clear, concise argument of why your research is both worth doing and doable.
  • Make sure you can ask the critical what, who, and how questions of your research   before   you put pen to paper.
  • Title – provides the first taste of your research, in broad terms
  • Introduction – explains what you’ll be researching in more detail
  • Scope – explains the boundaries of your research
  • Literature review – explains how your research fits into the existing research and why it’s unique and valuable
  • Research methodology – explains and justifies how you will carry out your own research

Hopefully, this post has helped you better understand how to write up a winning research proposal. If you enjoyed it, be sure to check out the rest of the Grad Coach Blog . If your university doesn’t provide any template for your proposal, you might want to try out our free research proposal template .

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Psst… there’s more!

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

30 Comments

Mazwakhe Mkhulisi

Thank you so much for the valuable insight that you have given, especially on the research proposal. That is what I have managed to cover. I still need to go back to the other parts as I got disturbed while still listening to Derek’s audio on you-tube. I am inspired. I will definitely continue with Grad-coach guidance on You-tube.

Derek Jansen

Thanks for the kind words :). All the best with your proposal.

NAVEEN ANANTHARAMAN

First of all, thanks a lot for making such a wonderful presentation. The video was really useful and gave me a very clear insight of how a research proposal has to be written. I shall try implementing these ideas in my RP.

Once again, I thank you for this content.

Bonginkosi Mshengu

I found reading your outline on writing research proposal very beneficial. I wish there was a way of submitting my draft proposal to you guys for critiquing before I submit to the institution.

Hi Bonginkosi

Thank you for the kind words. Yes, we do provide a review service. The best starting point is to have a chat with one of our coaches here: https://gradcoach.com/book/new/ .

Erick Omondi

Hello team GRADCOACH, may God bless you so much. I was totally green in research. Am so happy for your free superb tutorials and resources. Once again thank you so much Derek and his team.

You’re welcome, Erick. Good luck with your research proposal 🙂

ivy

thank you for the information. its precise and on point.

Nighat Nighat Ahsan

Really a remarkable piece of writing and great source of guidance for the researchers. GOD BLESS YOU for your guidance. Regards

Delfina Celeste Danca Rangel

Thanks so much for your guidance. It is easy and comprehensive the way you explain the steps for a winning research proposal.

Desiré Forku

Thank you guys so much for the rich post. I enjoyed and learn from every word in it. My problem now is how to get into your platform wherein I can always seek help on things related to my research work ? Secondly, I wish to find out if there is a way I can send my tentative proposal to you guys for examination before I take to my supervisor Once again thanks very much for the insights

Thanks for your kind words, Desire.

If you are based in a country where Grad Coach’s paid services are available, you can book a consultation by clicking the “Book” button in the top right.

Best of luck with your studies.

Adolph

May God bless you team for the wonderful work you are doing,

If I have a topic, Can I submit it to you so that you can draft a proposal for me?? As I am expecting to go for masters degree in the near future.

Thanks for your comment. We definitely cannot draft a proposal for you, as that would constitute academic misconduct. The proposal needs to be your own work. We can coach you through the process, but it needs to be your own work and your own writing.

Best of luck with your research!

kenate Akuma

I found a lot of many essential concepts from your material. it is real a road map to write a research proposal. so thanks a lot. If there is any update material on your hand on MBA please forward to me.

Ahmed Khalil

GradCoach is a professional website that presents support and helps for MBA student like me through the useful online information on the page and with my 1-on-1 online coaching with the amazing and professional PhD Kerryen.

Thank you Kerryen so much for the support and help 🙂

I really recommend dealing with such a reliable services provider like Gradcoah and a coach like Kerryen.

PINTON OFOSU

Hi, Am happy for your service and effort to help students and researchers, Please, i have been given an assignment on research for strategic development, the task one is to formulate a research proposal to support the strategic development of a business area, my issue here is how to go about it, especially the topic or title and introduction. Please, i would like to know if you could help me and how much is the charge.

Marcos A. López Figueroa

This content is practical, valuable, and just great!

Thank you very much!

Eric Rwigamba

Hi Derek, Thank you for the valuable presentation. It is very helpful especially for beginners like me. I am just starting my PhD.

Hussein EGIELEMAI

This is quite instructive and research proposal made simple. Can I have a research proposal template?

Mathew Yokie Musa

Great! Thanks for rescuing me, because I had no former knowledge in this topic. But with this piece of information, I am now secured. Thank you once more.

Chulekazi Bula

I enjoyed listening to your video on how to write a proposal. I think I will be able to write a winning proposal with your advice. I wish you were to be my supervisor.

Mohammad Ajmal Shirzad

Dear Derek Jansen,

Thank you for your great content. I couldn’t learn these topics in MBA, but now I learned from GradCoach. Really appreciate your efforts….

From Afghanistan!

Mulugeta Yilma

I have got very essential inputs for startup of my dissertation proposal. Well organized properly communicated with video presentation. Thank you for the presentation.

Siphesihle Macu

Wow, this is absolutely amazing guys. Thank you so much for the fruitful presentation, you’ve made my research much easier.

HAWANATU JULLIANA JOSEPH

this helps me a lot. thank you all so much for impacting in us. may god richly bless you all

June Pretzer

How I wish I’d learn about Grad Coach earlier. I’ve been stumbling around writing and rewriting! Now I have concise clear directions on how to put this thing together. Thank you!

Jas

Fantastic!! Thank You for this very concise yet comprehensive guidance.

Fikiru Bekele

Even if I am poor in English I would like to thank you very much.

Rachel Offeibea Nyarko

Thank you very much, this is very insightful.

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How to write a research proposal

proposed research topic

What is a research proposal?

What is the purpose of a research proposal , how long should a research proposal be, what should be included in a research proposal, 1. the title page, 2. introduction, 3. literature review, 4. research design, 5. implications, 6. reference list, frequently asked questions about writing a research proposal, related articles.

If you’re in higher education, the term “research proposal” is something you’re likely to be familiar with. But what is it, exactly? You’ll normally come across the need to prepare a research proposal when you’re looking to secure Ph.D. funding.

When you’re trying to find someone to fund your Ph.D. research, a research proposal is essentially your “pitch.”

A research proposal is a concise and coherent summary of your proposed research.

You’ll need to set out the issues that are central to the topic area and how you intend to address them with your research. To do this, you’ll need to give the following:

  • an outline of the general area of study within which your research falls
  • an overview of how much is currently known about the topic
  • a literature review that covers the recent scholarly debate or conversation around the topic

➡️  What is a literature review? Learn more in our guide.

Essentially, you are trying to persuade your institution that you and your project are worth investing their time and money into.

It is the opportunity for you to demonstrate that you have the aptitude for this level of research by showing that you can articulate complex ideas:

It also helps you to find the right supervisor to oversee your research. When you’re writing your research proposal, you should always have this in the back of your mind.

This is the document that potential supervisors will use in determining the legitimacy of your research and, consequently, whether they will invest in you or not. It is therefore incredibly important that you spend some time on getting it right.

Tip: While there may not always be length requirements for research proposals, you should strive to cover everything you need to in a concise way.

If your research proposal is for a bachelor’s or master’s degree, it may only be a few pages long. For a Ph.D., a proposal could be a pretty long document that spans a few dozen pages.

➡️ Research proposals are similar to grant proposals. Learn how to write a grant proposal in our guide.

When you’re writing your proposal, keep in mind its purpose and why you’re writing it. It, therefore, needs to clearly explain the relevance of your research and its context with other discussions on the topic. You need to then explain what approach you will take and why it is feasible.

Generally, your structure should look something like this:

  • Introduction
  • Literature Review
  • Research Design
  • Implications

If you follow this structure, you’ll have a comprehensive and coherent proposal that looks and feels professional, without missing out on anything important. We’ll take a deep dive into each of these areas one by one next.

The title page might vary slightly per your area of study but, as a general point, your title page should contain the following:

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

Tip: Keep in mind any departmental or institutional guidelines for a research proposal title page. Also, your supervisor may ask for specific details to be added to the page.

The introduction is crucial   to your research proposal as it is your first opportunity to hook the reader in. A good introduction section will introduce your project and its relevance to the field of study.

You’ll want to use this space to demonstrate that you have carefully thought about how to present your project as interesting, original, and important research. A good place to start is by introducing the context of your research problem.

Think about answering these questions:

  • What is it you want to research and why?
  • How does this research relate to the respective field?
  • How much is already known about this area?
  • Who might find this research interesting?
  • What are the key questions you aim to answer with your research?
  • What will the findings of this project add to the topic area?

Your introduction aims to set yourself off on a great footing and illustrate to the reader that you are an expert in your field and that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge and theory.

The literature review section answers the question who else is talking about your proposed research topic.

You want to demonstrate that your research will contribute to conversations around the topic and that it will sit happily amongst experts in the field.

➡️ Read more about how to write a literature review .

There are lots of ways you can find relevant information for your literature review, including:

  • Research relevant academic sources such as books and journals to find similar conversations around the topic.
  • Read through abstracts and bibliographies of your academic sources to look for relevance and further additional resources without delving too deep into articles that are possibly not relevant to you.
  • Watch out for heavily-cited works . This should help you to identify authoritative work that you need to read and document.
  • Look for any research gaps , trends and patterns, common themes, debates, and contradictions.
  • Consider any seminal studies on the topic area as it is likely anticipated that you will address these in your research proposal.

This is where you get down to the real meat of your research proposal. It should be a discussion about the overall approach you plan on taking, and the practical steps you’ll follow in answering the research questions you’ve posed.

So what should you discuss here? Some of the key things you will need to discuss at this point are:

  • What form will your research take? Is it qualitative/quantitative/mixed? Will your research be primary or secondary?
  • What sources will you use? Who or what will you be studying as part of your research.
  • Document your research method. How are you practically going to carry out your research? What tools will you need? What procedures will you use?
  • Any practicality issues you foresee. Do you think there will be any obstacles to your anticipated timescale? What resources will you require in carrying out your research?

Your research design should also discuss the potential implications of your research. For example, are you looking to confirm an existing theory or develop a new one?

If you intend to create a basis for further research, you should describe this here.

It is important to explain fully what you want the outcome of your research to look like and what you want to achieve by it. This will help those reading your research proposal to decide if it’s something the field  needs  and  wants,  and ultimately whether they will support you with it.

When you reach the end of your research proposal, you’ll have to compile a list of references for everything you’ve cited above. Ideally, you should keep track of everything from the beginning. Otherwise, this could be a mammoth and pretty laborious task to do.

Consider using a reference manager like Paperpile to format and organize your citations. Paperpile allows you to organize and save your citations for later use and cite them in thousands of citation styles directly in Google Docs, Microsoft Word, or LaTeX.

Paperpile reference manager

Your project may also require you to have a timeline, depending on the budget you are requesting. If you need one, you should include it here and explain both the timeline and the budget you need, documenting what should be done at each stage of the research and how much of the budget this will use.

This is the final step, but not one to be missed. You should make sure that you edit and proofread your document so that you can be sure there are no mistakes.

A good idea is to have another person proofread the document for you so that you get a fresh pair of eyes on it. You can even have a professional proofreader do this for you.

This is an important document and you don’t want spelling or grammatical mistakes to get in the way of you and your reader.

➡️ Working on a research proposal for a thesis? Take a look at our guide on how to come up with a topic for your thesis .

A research proposal is a concise and coherent summary of your proposed research. Generally, your research proposal will have a title page, introduction, literature review section, a section about research design and explaining the implications of your research, and a reference list.

A good research proposal is concise and coherent. It has a clear purpose, clearly explains the relevance of your research and its context with other discussions on the topic. A good research proposal explains what approach you will take and why it is feasible.

You need a research proposal to persuade your institution that you and your project are worth investing their time and money into. It is your opportunity to demonstrate your aptitude for this level or research by showing that you can articulate complex ideas clearly, concisely, and critically.

A research proposal is essentially your "pitch" when you're trying to find someone to fund your PhD. It is a clear and concise summary of your proposed research. It gives an outline of the general area of study within which your research falls, it elaborates how much is currently known about the topic, and it highlights any recent debate or conversation around the topic by other academics.

The general answer is: as long as it needs to be to cover everything. The length of your research proposal depends on the requirements from the institution that you are applying to. Make sure to carefully read all the instructions given, and if this specific information is not provided, you can always ask.

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

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

Written by: Danesh Ramuthi Nov 29, 2023

How to Write a Research Proposal

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

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

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

What to include in a research proposal?

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

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

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

Light Blue Shape Semiotic Analysis Research Proposal

How to format a research proposal?

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

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

Green And Orange Modern Research Proposal

How to write a research proposal in 11 steps?

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

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

Step 1: title and abstract.

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

Step 2: Introduction

In this section, introduce the topic of your research, emphasizing its significance and relevance to the field. Articulate the research problem or question in clear terms and provide background context, which should include an overview of previous research in the field.

Step 3: Research objectives

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

Step 4: Literature review

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

Step 5: Methodology

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

Step 6: Timeline

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

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

Step 7: Resources

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

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

Step 8: Ethical considerations

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

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

Step 9: Expected outcomes and significance

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

Step 10: References

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

Step 11: Appendices

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

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

Beige And Dark Green Minimalist Research Proposal

Research proposal FAQs

1. how long should a research proposal be.

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

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

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

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

Simple Minimalist White Research Proposal

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

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

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

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

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

how to write a research proposal

Table of Contents

Before conducting a study, a research proposal should be created that outlines researchers’ plans and methodology and is submitted to the concerned evaluating organization or person. Creating a research proposal is an important step to ensure that researchers are on track and are moving forward as intended. A research proposal can be defined as a detailed plan or blueprint for the proposed research that you intend to undertake. It provides readers with a snapshot of your project by describing what you will investigate, why it is needed, and how you will conduct the research.  

Your research proposal should aim to explain to the readers why your research is relevant and original, that you understand the context and current scenario in the field, have the appropriate resources to conduct the research, and that the research is feasible given the usual constraints.  

This article will describe in detail the purpose and typical structure of a research proposal , along with examples and templates to help you ace this step in your research journey.  

What is a Research Proposal ?  

A research proposal¹ ,²  can be defined as a formal report that describes your proposed research, its objectives, methodology, implications, and other important details. Research proposals are the framework of your research and are used to obtain approvals or grants to conduct the study from various committees or organizations. Consequently, research proposals should convince readers of your study’s credibility, accuracy, achievability, practicality, and reproducibility.   

With research proposals , researchers usually aim to persuade the readers, funding agencies, educational institutions, and supervisors to approve the proposal. To achieve this, the report should be well structured with the objectives written in clear, understandable language devoid of jargon. A well-organized research proposal conveys to the readers or evaluators that the writer has thought out the research plan meticulously and has the resources to ensure timely completion.  

Purpose of Research Proposals  

A research proposal is a sales pitch and therefore should be detailed enough to convince your readers, who could be supervisors, ethics committees, universities, etc., that what you’re proposing has merit and is feasible . Research proposals can help students discuss their dissertation with their faculty or fulfill course requirements and also help researchers obtain funding. A well-structured proposal instills confidence among readers about your ability to conduct and complete the study as proposed.  

Research proposals can be written for several reasons:³  

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

What Goes in a Research Proposal?    

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

The What question should be answered by describing the specific subject being researched. It should typically include the objectives, the cohort details, and the location or setting.  

The Why question should be answered by describing the existing scenario of the subject, listing unanswered questions, identifying gaps in the existing research, and describing how your study can address these gaps, along with the implications and significance.  

The How question should be answered by describing the proposed research methodology, data analysis tools expected to be used, and other details to describe your proposed methodology.   

Research Proposal Example  

Here is a research proposal sample template (with examples) from the University of Rochester Medical Center. 4 The sections in all research proposals are essentially the same although different terminology and other specific sections may be used depending on the subject.  

Research Proposal Template

Structure of a Research Proposal  

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

1. Introduction  

This section provides a background of the study, including the research topic, what is already known about it and the gaps, and the significance of the proposed research.  

2. Literature review  

This section contains descriptions of all the previous relevant studies pertaining to the research topic. Every study cited should be described in a few sentences, starting with the general studies to the more specific ones. This section builds on the understanding gained by readers in the Introduction section and supports it by citing relevant prior literature, indicating to readers that you have thoroughly researched your subject.  

3. Objectives  

Once the background and gaps in the research topic have been established, authors must now state the aims of the research clearly. Hypotheses should be mentioned here. This section further helps readers understand what your study’s specific goals are.  

4. Research design and methodology  

Here, authors should clearly describe the methods they intend to use to achieve their proposed objectives. Important components of this section include the population and sample size, data collection and analysis methods and duration, statistical analysis software, measures to avoid bias (randomization, blinding), etc.  

5. Ethical considerations  

This refers to the protection of participants’ rights, such as the right to privacy, right to confidentiality, etc. Researchers need to obtain informed consent and institutional review approval by the required authorities and mention this clearly for transparency.  

6. Budget/funding  

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

7. Appendices  

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

8. Citations  

proposed research topic

Important Tips for Writing a Research Proposal  

Writing a research proposal begins much before the actual task of writing. Planning the research proposal structure and content is an important stage, which if done efficiently, can help you seamlessly transition into the writing stage. 3,5  

The Planning Stage  

  • Manage your time efficiently. Plan to have the draft version ready at least two weeks before your deadline and the final version at least two to three days before the deadline.
  • What is the primary objective of your research?  
  • Will your research address any existing gap?  
  • What is the impact of your proposed research?  
  • Do people outside your field find your research applicable in other areas?  
  • If your research is unsuccessful, would there still be other useful research outcomes?  

  The Writing Stage  

  • Create an outline with main section headings that are typically used.  
  • Focus only on writing and getting your points across without worrying about the format of the research proposal , grammar, punctuation, etc. These can be fixed during the subsequent passes. Add details to each section heading you created in the beginning.   
  • Ensure your sentences are concise and use plain language. A research proposal usually contains about 2,000 to 4,000 words or four to seven pages.  
  • Don’t use too many technical terms and abbreviations assuming that the readers would know them. Define the abbreviations and technical terms.  
  • Ensure that the entire content is readable. Avoid using long paragraphs because they affect the continuity in reading. Break them into shorter paragraphs and introduce some white space for readability.  
  • Focus on only the major research issues and cite sources accordingly. Don’t include generic information or their sources in the literature review.  
  • Proofread your final document to ensure there are no grammatical errors so readers can enjoy a seamless, uninterrupted read.  
  • Use academic, scholarly language because it brings formality into a document.  
  • Ensure that your title is created using the keywords in the document and is neither too long and specific nor too short and general.  
  • Cite all sources appropriately to avoid plagiarism.  
  • Make sure that you follow guidelines, if provided. This includes rules as simple as using a specific font or a hyphen or en dash between numerical ranges.  
  • Ensure that you’ve answered all questions requested by the evaluating authority.  

Key Takeaways   

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

  • A research proposal is a document that outlines the details of a proposed study and is created by researchers to submit to evaluators who could be research institutions, universities, faculty, etc.  
  • Research proposals are usually about 2,000-4,000 words long, but this depends on the evaluating authority’s guidelines.  
  • A good research proposal ensures that you’ve done your background research and assessed the feasibility of the research.  
  • Research proposals have the following main sections—introduction, literature review, objectives, methodology, ethical considerations, and budget.  

proposed research topic

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q1. How is a research proposal evaluated?  

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

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

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

A2. The Introduction or Background section in a research proposal sets the context of the study by describing the current scenario of the subject and identifying the gaps and need for the research. A Literature Review, on the other hand, provides references to all prior relevant literature to help corroborate the gaps identified and the research need.  

Q3. How long should a research proposal be?  

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

     
  Arts programs  1,000-1,500 
University of Birmingham  Law School programs  2,500 
  PhD  2,500 
    2,000 
  Research degrees  2,000-3,500 

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

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

  • No clear objectives: Objectives should be clear, specific, and measurable for the easy understanding among readers.  
  • Incomplete or unconvincing background research: Background research usually includes a review of the current scenario of the particular industry and also a review of the previous literature on the subject. This helps readers understand your reasons for undertaking this research because you identified gaps in the existing research.  
  • Overlooking project feasibility: The project scope and estimates should be realistic considering the resources and time available.   
  • Neglecting the impact and significance of the study: In a research proposal , readers and evaluators look for the implications or significance of your research and how it contributes to the existing research. This information should always be included.  
  • Unstructured format of a research proposal : A well-structured document gives confidence to evaluators that you have read the guidelines carefully and are well organized in your approach, consequently affirming that you will be able to undertake the research as mentioned in your proposal.  
  • Ineffective writing style: The language used should be formal and grammatically correct. If required, editors could be consulted, including AI-based tools such as Paperpal , to refine the research proposal structure and language.  

Thus, a research proposal is an essential document that can help you promote your research and secure funds and grants for conducting your research. Consequently, it should be well written in clear language and include all essential details to convince the evaluators of your ability to conduct the research as proposed.  

This article has described all the important components of a research proposal and has also provided tips to improve your writing style. We hope all these tips will help you write a well-structured research proposal to ensure receipt of grants or any other purpose.  

References  

  • Sudheesh K, Duggappa DR, Nethra SS. How to write a research proposal? Indian J Anaesth. 2016;60(9):631-634. Accessed July 15, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5037942/  
  • Writing research proposals. Harvard College Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships. Harvard University. Accessed July 14, 2024. https://uraf.harvard.edu/apply-opportunities/app-components/essays/research-proposals  
  • What is a research proposal? Plus how to write one. Indeed website. Accessed July 17, 2024. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/research-proposal  
  • Research proposal template. University of Rochester Medical Center. Accessed July 16, 2024. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/MediaLibraries/URMCMedia/pediatrics/research/documents/Research-proposal-Template.pdf  
  • Tips for successful proposal writing. Johns Hopkins University. Accessed July 17, 2024. https://research.jhu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Tips-for-Successful-Proposal-Writing.pdf  
  • Formal review of research proposals. Cornell University. Accessed July 18, 2024. https://irp.dpb.cornell.edu/surveys/survey-assessment-review-group/research-proposals  
  • 7 Mistakes you must avoid in your research proposal. Aveksana (via LinkedIn). Accessed July 17, 2024. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/7-mistakes-you-must-avoid-your-research-proposal-aveksana-cmtwf/  

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Get accurate academic translations, rewriting support, grammar checks, vocabulary suggestions, and generative AI assistance that delivers human precision at machine speed. Try for free or upgrade to Paperpal Prime starting at US$19 a month to access premium features, including consistency, plagiarism, and 30+ submission readiness checks to help you succeed.  

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17 Research Proposal Examples

17 Research Proposal Examples

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]

Learn about our Editorial Process

research proposal example sections definition and purpose, explained below

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

Get your Template for Writing your Research Proposal Here (With AI Prompts!)

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.

SectionChecklist
Title – Ensure the single-sentence title clearly states the study’s focus
Abstract (Words: 200) – Briefly describe the research topicSummarize the research problem or question
– Outline the research design and methods
– Mention the expected outcomes and implications
Introduction (Words: 300) – Introduce the research topic and its significance
– Clearly state the research problem or question
– Explain the purpose and objectives of the study
– Provide a brief overview of
Literature Review (Words: 800) – Gather the existing literature into themes and ket ideas
– the themes and key ideas in the literature
– Identify gaps or inconsistencies in the literature
– Explain how the current study will contribute to the literature
Research Design and Methods (Words; 800) – Describe the research paradigm (generally: positivism and interpretivism)
– Describe the research design (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods)
– Explain the data collection methods (e.g., surveys, interviews, observations)
– Detail the sampling strategy and target population
– Outline the data analysis techniques (e.g., statistical analysis, thematic analysis)
– Outline your validity and reliability procedures
– Outline your intended ethics procedures
– Explain the study design’s limitations and justify your decisions
Timeline (Single page table) – Provide an overview of the research timeline
– Break down the study into stages with specific timeframes (e.g., data collection, analysis, report writing)
– Include any relevant deadlines or milestones
Budget (200 words) – Estimate the costs associated with the research project
– Detail specific expenses (e.g., materials, participant incentives, travel costs)
– Include any necessary justifications for the budget items
– Mention any funding sources or grant applications
Expected Outcomes and Implications (200 words) – Summarize the anticipated findings or results of the study
– Discuss the potential implications of the findings for theory, practice, or policy
– Describe any possible limitations of the study

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

  • Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 25 Number Games for Kids (Free and Easy)
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8 thoughts on “17 Research Proposal Examples”

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Very excellent research proposals

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very helpful

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Very helpful

' src=

Dear Sir, I need some help to write an educational research proposal. Thank you.

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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!

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very good research proposal

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Thank you so much sir! ❤️

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Very helpful 👌

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Research Proposal Template

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Prepared by: ​ [Researcher.FirstName] [Researcher.LastName] ​

Image 1

Prepared for: ​ [Supervisor.FirstName]

​ [Supervisor.LastName]

This should be clear and concise, leaving the reader with no doubt regarding your field of study. A good title structure can often be “Short Title: Longer Explanation of Your Field.” Your academic institution may have a preferred format for the title, or even a title page. Find out before you submit your proposal. If there is no preferred format, keep it simple and clear, and use a “serif” font that is easily legible.

(Main title: What I am trying to find out by taking on this project)

(Academic Institution)

(Subject Area)

​ [Supervisor.FirstName]

​ [Supervisor.LastName] (if you already have one)

​ [Researcher.FirstName]

​ [Researcher.LastName]

(Student ID/Number)

2. Abstract

100-200 words. This summarizes the central theme of your research. Use concise, clipped language that is academic without being over-wordy and verbose. The abstract needs to be entirely your own words, as every abstract should be completely different, unique in its approach to your topic. Like the rest of the document, apart from block quotations, it should be double-spaced and laid out clearly.

3. Contents

Depending on the length of your research proposal, you may wish to include a contents page for the proposal itself (not for your main research project: suggested contents for this are included in your Proposed Chapter Outline, section 9) , as follows (add page numbers/subsections when you know them, depending on your research) . As you introduce sub-sections into your different sections, number them accordingly e.g. subsections of the literature review could be numbered 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, etc.

Abstract………………………………………pn

Contents……………………………………..pn

Introduction………………………………..pn

Problem Statement……………………pn

Objectives…………………………………..pn

Literature Review……………………….pn

Notion of Original Research……..pn

Key Assertions / Objectives……..pn

Research Methods…………………….pn

Sample Audience……………………….pn

Research Questions…………………..pn

Research Design………………………..pn

Analysis………………………………………pn

Proposed Chapter Outline…………pn

Research Limitations…………………pn

Proposed Timescale………………….pn

Funding (Optional)……………………..pn

References/ Bibliography………….pn

4. Introduction

200-400 words. Unlike the abstract, this is not a summary of everything you are about to say — you can afford to grab your readers’ attention right out of the gate. Deliver a surprise beginning, perhaps a quote from someone who inspires you on this topic, and show your knowledge of the research area (include, if you like, your previous research experience in this field; in fact, it may serve you well to be personal in this section) and why it is relevant to today’s world.

Try to provide facts and references here in order to give relevance to your study and why it is being conducted. This will help to explain the motivation behind your research and how important it is for academia, the industry or public sector it is being conducted in.

5. Problem Statement

Keep this short and informative. This section is meant to provide the reader with a summarized description of the problems you seek to address through your research proposal. Showcase the questions you seek to answer through your research and how it will help benefit those who read it. A problem statement should include the context of the problem, a particular audience you are targeting, and a timeline for the study. This will ensure that your research is well-focused and relevant to the current time and people.

The application of (topic, aka the main title of the subject you are researching) for (a particular group of people) in (timeline, this should either be current year or upcoming years but research can be done on past years as well) .

6. Objectives

This follows up on the problem statement section. It elaborates further on the problem statement by dividing it into a set of 3 to 5 descriptive assertions or intentions that relate to the problem. Objectives establish the scope and depth of your project and also help set up the idea for the research design (as seen later in the research proposal template) . The objectives can also indicate a section that shows how your research will contribute to already existing research and knowledge.

To study the applications of blockchain in the gaming industry and how it can help be a new source of revenue.

To study how blockchain gaming can influence people who don’t gamble to actively invest time in gaming.

To determine whether blockchain gaming can be a viable job opportunity in the future.

7. Literature review

Length can vary immensely, but probably 300-1500 words or more, depending on the nature of your research. This is one of the most important sections of your research proposal. It demonstrates that you know your field, who the key research players are in it, what has been said in the past and what is being said at the moment. You will want to mention — and where appropriate, quote from — key works in your area.

This is the section that requires the most preliminary research, so be sure you spend ample time in an academic library and use search engines for relevant academic papers before presenting. You do not need to discuss every work in your area, but you need to present a competent outline, and (especially if this is a proposal for doctoral research) you need to be sure that no one else has already done the same project. A good way of presenting a literature review coherently is in the form of a narrative, which can either be chronological or thematic.

There has been a (small/considerable/state value here) amount of previous academic research in this field.

(For a chronological narrative) I will outline how the understanding of (subject) has developed over (the last number of) years.

(Insert chronological narrative, remembering to introduce key players, dates, and academic works, and end with the state of the field as it is today.)

(For a thematic narrative) I will outline the major themes that are of relevance in this field, and go through them each in turn:

• (use a bulleted list to outline what themes/topics you are planning on covering)

After your bulleted list, you can use the themes from your list as subtitles to split up your literature review. Put them in bold. You could also add them as subsections in your contents page.

Under each subtitle, describe the state of the field of research in this area, including the most important researchers and works in this area.

8. Notion of original research

Length varies here as well, but similar in length to the literature review is likely a good place to start. This is where you sell your research proposal to the reader. You need to explain, clearly and simply, how your research will complement the field you have just described in your literature review — what you will add, how it fills an existing gap, why the academic world would benefit from your research, etc.

9. Key Assertions/Objectives

One sentence for each question/assertion. This is really part of the “notion of original research” section. A good way of making your research aim clear is to state a clear research question, and back it up with 2-4 specific assertions or objectives.

My central research question is as follows:

(insert research question here, in bold)

In the light of this, I will make the following observations/assertions: (insert observations/assertions here, in bulleted list.)

10. Research methods

Approx. 50-1000 words, depending on the nature of your research. This is where you explain how and where you plan to carry out your research. This will vary hugely depending on your subject. Will you be researching in libraries and archives? Which ones hold the books and documents you will need? Will you need to travel? If so, where? Will your research involve extensive field work? How and where? State whether you will plan to use different methods of data collection, and if so what they will be.

Do you need to be in a laboratory? Will you be emphasizing qualitative or quantitative collection of data, or both equally? Do you have the necessary skills and qualifications to undertake your research (for instance, foreign languages, statistical analysis, laboratory training, etc) ? If not, what are your plans to acquire these skills? (Note: many postgraduate institutions offer considerable support in the acquisition of new skills necessary to perform research, but this will require discussion at the proposal stage.)

11. Sample Audience

This section aims to provide the reader of the proposal with a description of who the sample audience is. You can add a brief description of your ideal sample audience and why such a person is relevant or necessary to the research. You can also mention what measures can be taken to gain their consent for the research in order to get a more enthusiastic and unbiased response. Lastly, you should mention where you propose to find this sample audience and any barriers that may occur in finding or engaging them.

12. Research Questions

13. research design.

This section will give the reader a description of what the research stimuli will look like. It gives a background of the different variations you may employ to better help test your hypothesis. It should also showcase the different factors that may vary a person's response to the research problem while you are researching the topic. This is important in a research proposal, because as with method, different factors help show what could affect you by confirming or denying your hypothesis. Keep your design descriptive and show how you will rule out or control factors that may come up.

14. Analysis

Approx. 50-300 words. Once you have collected your data, include details about what you plan to do with it. Again, depending on the nature of your research, this section could be anywhere from one or two sentences to several paragraphs.

If your research is in a survey format, then include the questions to the survey along with the method of collecting the survey. You can also include a few examples of how you plan to present the data, such as in a pie chart format or as a bar graph.

15. Proposed chapter outline

Probably less than 200 words, unless you have a very detailed plan already in mind. Note: this is like the preliminary contents page, but it does not need to be very specific, and can suggest sections rather than chapters at this stage. The academics reading your proposal will be impressed to know that you have some idea how you may wish to present your work, and that you have some way in mind of translating your research to paper.

(title of your first chapter) (explanation of your first chapter contents: one sentence)

(first subsection of your first chapter)

(second subsection of your first chapter)

(title of your second chapter) (explanation of your second chapter contents: one sentence)

(first subsection of your second chapter)

(second subsection of your second chapter)

(smaller section)

(another small section)

(title of your third chapter) (explanation of your third chapter contents: one sentence)

16. Research limitations

Approx 50-300 words. This section states everything you won’t be able to do in your research. It is surprisingly important, as it shows that you can recognise the limited scale of your work. Every project needs distinct limiting factors and clear boundaries in order to be manageable.

Naturally, the scope of this project is limited. This section describes specific limitations. (add limitations here) .

17. Proposed Timetable

Approx 50-300 words. This section is optional, but may be helpful to show your potential supervisors that you are being realistic and recognize that your project has set parameters within which to conduct the study. It also will help you to know the scale of your work in the preliminary stages of planning, and help you to maintain realistic expectations of yourself.

I predict that this research project will take (number) months/years. I propose a rough timeline, as follows:

(Here, include a list of tasks that will need completing as part of your research project, and how long you predict each will take in terms of weeks or months. End with a final count of months. If you have a predicted start date, you can begin with this and work towards a proposed end date.)

You can also use a project schedule table in order to plan out the project for yourself as well as give a better understanding as to the breakup of the project timeline. An example of this is:

Week

1

2

3

Project End

Date

Jan 1 – Jan 7

Jan 8 – Jan 14

Jan 15 – Jan 21

Phase 1

Planning

Phase 2

Research

Phase 3

Analysis

18. Funding

For example, your money allocation table can look like this:

Items required for research

X amount of dollars

Permissions

X amount of dollars

To pay survey respondents

X amount of dollars

Add in additional details

X amount of dollars

Add in additional details

X amount of dollars

19. References/Bibliography

The reference list should always begin on a new page. Depending on your subject, there will probably be a specific format and referencing pattern for written work (Chicago, Harvard, MLA, Social Sciences) . Before you start writing, make sure you know what the convention for your subject area is, learn it and stick to it. There are a wide variety of different referencing conventions so it is important to make sure you find the correct one and stay consistent.

This will make doing your research proposal (and future research) a lot easier. Depending on your subject, your referencing may involve in-text citations or footnotes. Either way, your proposal will need a full reference list or bibliography at the end, including all of the secondary works you have mentioned in your literature review and primary sources (if applicable) .

You do not, however, need to include work that you have read in preparation but not used or mentioned in your work. Make sure this is correctly formatted — plenty of style guides for each referencing style are available online. Also, remember to lay out your reference list in alphabetical order by the authors’ surnames.

​ [Researcher.FirstName] [Researcher.LastName] ​

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To make a comprehensive research proposal, make sure you answer all the questions your review committee might have, such as who is your sample audience, what kind of questions you plan to ask them, why you are conducting this research, what you think will come out of it, etc. Leave no room for assumptions. Alternatively, you can also use this template to best understand which nitty-gritty details to cover.

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8 Research Proposal Examples & Template to Use

8 Research Proposal Examples & Template to Use

Written by: Raja Mandal

8 Research Proposal Examples & Template to Use

So you have a groundbreaking research idea you've spent months or even years developing, and now you're ready to take the next step.

How do you get funding for your research, and how should you approach potential funders? The answer is to create a convincing research proposal.

Unfortunately, most research proposals often get rejected. According to the European Research Council, the success rate for repeat proposal applications was only 14.8% in 2023 .

Pitching a novel research concept isn’t enough. To increase your chances of securing funding, your research proposal must check the right boxes in terms of clarity, feasibility, aesthetic appeal and other factors.

If you’re looking for inspiration to create a persuasive and feasible proposal, you’re in the right place. In this article, we have compiled a list of research proposal examples to help you create yours.

These examples will help you understand how to organize your proposal, what information to include and how to present it in a way that encourages others to support your project.

Let's dive in!

Table of Contents

What is a research proposal, what to include in a research proposal, 8 research proposal examples & templates, research proposal faqs.

  • A research proposal is a document that outlines your proposed research project, explaining what you plan to study, why it's important and how you will conduct your research.
  • A well-structured research proposal includes a title page, abstract and table of contents, introduction, literature review, research design and methodology, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, timeline and budget.
  • Visme's research proposal examples and templates offer a great starting point for creating engaging and well-structured proposals.
  • Choose a template from Visme's research proposal examples and customize it to fit your needs.
  • With Visme’s proposal maker , you can create a research proposal that stands out. Access a drag-and-drop editor and advanced features like AI tools , collaboration features, brand wizard and more.

A research proposal is a structured document that outlines the core idea of your research, the methods you intend to use, the required resources and the expected results.

Think of it as a sales pitch for your research. It answers some big questions: What are you planning to explore? Why is it important to conduct the research? What are your research objectives and the methods you’ll use to achieve them? What are the potential outcomes or contributions of this research to the field?

A research proposal serves two primary purposes. First, it convinces funding bodies or academic committees to support your research project expected to bring new ideas and insights. Second, it provides a roadmap for your research journey, helping you stay focused, organized and on track.

Now, we'll discuss what to include in a research proposal. You'll learn about the important parts of a research proposal template and how they help present your research idea clearly.

Here’s an infographic that you can use to understand the elements of a research proposal quickly.

What Should a Research Proposal Include Infographic

1. Title Page

Start your research proposal with a title page that clearly states your research. The title page is like a book cover, giving the first impression of your project. Therefore, you must ensure the design is engaging enough to attract your audience at first glance.

Include the following details on your title page:

  • Title of your research
  • Contact Details
  • Name of the department or organization
  • Date of submission

General Funding Research Proposal

2. Abstract and Table of Contents

After the title page comes the abstract and the table of contents.

The abstract is a concise summary of your project that briefly outlines your research question, the reasons behind the study and the methods you intend to use. It is a quick way for readers to understand your proposal without reading the entire document.

The table of contents is a detailed list of the sections and subsections in your proposal, with page numbers. It helps readers navigate through your document and quickly locate different parts they're interested in.

Product Research Proposal

3. Introduction

The introduction of your research proposal sets the tone for the rest of the document. It should grab the reader's attention and make them want to learn more. It's your chance to make a strong case for why your research is worth investigating and how it can fill a gap in current knowledge or solve a specific problem.

Make sure that your introduction covers the following:

  • Background Information: Set the stage with a brief snapshot of existing research and why your topic is relevant.
  • Research Problem: Identify the specific problem or knowledge gap that your study will address.
  • Research Questions or Hypotheses: Present the central question or hypothesis that guides your research focus.
  • Aims and Objectives: Outline your research's main goal and the steps you'll take to achieve it.
  • Significance and Contribution: Explain how your research will add value to the field and what impact it could have.

4. Literature Review

A literature review is a list of the scholarly works you used to conduct your research. It helps you demonstrate your current knowledge about the topic.

Here's how this part works:

  • Summary of Sources: Talk about the main ideas or findings from your research materials and explain how they connect to your research questions.
  • Finding Gaps: Show where the current research falls short or doesn't give the full picture—this is where your research comes in!
  • Key Theories: Tell the readers about any theories or ways of thinking that help shape your research.
  • Learning from Methods: Discuss what previous researchers worked on and how their methods might guide your research.
  • Recognizing Authors and Studies: Honor the pioneers whose work has had a major influence on your topic.

5. Research Design and Methodology

This section outlines your plan for answering your research question. It explains how you intend to gather and analyze information, providing a clear roadmap of the investigation process.

Here are the key components:

Population and Sample

Describe the entire group you're interested in (the population). This could be all teachers in a specific state or all social media platform users. After that, you will need to explain how you will choose a smaller group, known as a sample, to study directly. This sample should be selected to accurately represent the larger population you are interested in studying.

To choose the right sampling method, you need to assess your population properly. For instance, to obtain general insights, you can use random sampling to select individuals without bias. If the population consists of different categories, such as professionals and students, you can use stratified sampling to ensure that each category is represented in the sample.

Other popular sampling methods include systematic, convenience, purposive, cluster, and probability sampling techniques.

Research Approach

There are three main approaches for the research: qualitative (focusing on experiences and themes), quantitative (using numbers and statistics), or mixed methods (combining both). Your choice will depend on your research question and the kind of data you need.

Data Collection

This section details the specific methods you'll use to gather information. Will you distribute surveys online or in person? Conduct interviews? Perhaps you'll use existing data sets. Here, you'll also explain how you'll ensure the data collection process is reliable and ethical.

Data Analysis

Once you have collected your data, the next step is to analyze it to obtain meaningful insights. The method you choose depends on the available data type.

If you have quantitative data, you can employ statistical tests to analyze it. And if you're dealing with qualitative data, coding techniques can help you spot patterns and themes in your collected data.

Tech Research Proposal

6. Contribution to Knowledge

In this section, you need to explain how your research will contribute to the existing knowledge in your field. You should describe whether your study will fill a knowledge gap, challenge conventional ideas or beliefs or offer a fresh perspective on a topic.

Clearly outline how your work will advance your field of study and why this new knowledge is essential.

7. Research Schedule and Timeline

Create a timeline with important milestones, such as finishing your literature review, completing data collection and finalizing your analysis.

This shows that you've carefully considered the scope of your project and can manage your time effectively. Furthermore, account for possible delays and be prepared to adapt your schedule accordingly.

To create this timeline, consider using a visual tool like a Gantt chart or a simple spreadsheet. These tools will help you organize individual tasks, assign deadlines, and visualize the project's overall progress.

Choose a Gantt chart template from Visme's library and customize it to create your timeline quickly. Here's an example template:

General Project Timeline Gantt Chart

The budget section is your opportunity to show them that you've carefully considered all necessary expenses and that your funding request is justified.

Here's how you can approach this part:

  • Understand the Rules: Before making calculations, thoroughly review the funding agency's guidelines. Pay attention to what types of expenses are allowed or excluded and whether there are any budget caps.
  • Personnel: Salaries and benefits for yourself, research assistants, or collaborators.
  • Equipment: Specialized tools, software, or lab supplies.
  • Travel: Transportation, lodging and meals if data collection requires travel.
  • Dissemination: Costs for publishing results or presenting at conferences.
  • Provide Justifications: Don't just list a cost. Briefly explain why each expense is crucial for completing your research.
  • Be Thorough and Realistic: Research prices for specific items using quotes or online comparisons. Don't underestimate expenses, as this can raise troubles about the project's feasibility.
  • Don't Forget Contingencies: Include a small buffer (around 5% of your total budget) for unexpected costs that might arise.

Environmental Research Proposal

Using these research proposal examples and templates, you can create a winning proposal in no time. You will find templates for various topics and customize every aspect of them to make them your own.

Visme’s drag-and-drop editor, advanced features and a vast library of templates help organizations and individuals worldwide create engaging documents.

Here’s what a research student who uses Visme to create award-winning presentations has to say about the tool:

Chantelle Clarke

Research Student

Now, let’s dive into the research proposal examples.

1. Research Proposal Presentation Template

proposed research topic

This research proposal presentation template is a powerful tool for presenting your research plan to stakeholders. The slides include specific sections to help you outline your research, including the research background, questions, objectives, methodology and expected results.

The slides create a coherent narrative, highlighting the importance and significance of your research. Overall, the template has a calming and professional blue color scheme with text that enables your audience to grasp the key points.

If you need help creating your presentation slides in a fraction of the time, check out Visme's AI presentation maker . Enter your requirements using text prompts, and the AI tool will generate a complete presentation with engaging visuals, text and clear structure. You can further customize the template completely to your needs.

2. Sales Research Proposal Template

Sales Research Proposal

Sales research gives you a deeper understanding of their target audience. It also helps you identify gaps in the market and develop effective sales strategies that drive revenue growth. With this research proposal template, you can secure funding for your next research project.

It features a sleek and professional grayscale color palette with a classic and modern vibe. The high-quality images in the template are strategically placed to reinforce the message without overwhelming the reader. Furthermore, the template includes a vertical bar graph that effectively represents budget allocations, enabling the reader to quickly grasp the information.

Use Visme's interactive elements and animations to add a dynamic layer to your research proposals. You can animate any object and add pop-ups or link pages for a more immersive experience. Use these functionalities to highlight key findings, demonstrate trends or guide readers through your proposal, making the content engaging and interactive.

3. General Funding Research Proposal Template

General Funding Research Proposal

This proposal template is a great tool for securing funding for any type of research project. It begins with a captivating title page that grabs attention. The beautiful design elements and vector icons enhance the aesthetic and aid visual communication.

This template revolves around how a specific user group adopts cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The goal is to assess awareness, gauge interest and understand key factors affecting cryptocurrency adoption.

The project methodology includes survey design, data collection, and market research. The expected impact is to enhance customer engagement and position the company as a customer-centric brand.

Do you need additional help crafting the perfect text for your proposal? Visme's AI writer can quickly generate content outlines, summaries and even entire sections. Just explain your requirements to the tool using a text prompt, and the tool will generate it for you.

4. Product Research Proposal Template

Product Research Proposal

Creating a product that delights users begins with detailed product research. With this modern proposal template, you can secure buy-in and funding for your next research.

It starts with a background that explains why the research is important. Next, it highlights what the research is set to achieve, how the research will be conducted, how much it will cost, the timeline and the expected outcomes. With a striking color scheme combining black, yellow, and gray, the template grabs attention and maintains it until the last page.

What we love about this template is the smart use of visuals. You'll find a flowchart explaining the methodology, a bar graph for the budget, and a timeline for the project. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg regarding the visual elements you’ll find in Visme.

Visme offers data visualization tools with 30+ data widgets, such as radial gauges, population arrays, progress bars and more. These tools can help you turn complex data into engaging visuals for your research proposal or any other document.

For larger data sets, you can choose from 20+ types of charts and graphs , including bar graphs , bubble charts , Venn diagrams and more.

5. Tech Research Proposal Template

Tech Research Proposal

If you’re a tech researcher, we’ve got the perfect template for you. This research proposal example is about predictive analytics in e-commerce. However, you can customize it for any other type of research proposal.

It highlights the project's objectives, including the effectiveness of predictive analysis, the impact of product recommendations and supply chain optimization. The methods proposed for achieving these objectives involve A/B testing and data analysis, a comprehensive budget and a 12-month timeline for clear project planning.

The title page has a unique triptych-style layout that immediately catches the reader's attention. It has plenty of white space that enhances readability, allowing your audience to focus on the critical points.

Submitting to different funding agencies? You don’t have to manually make changes to your document. Visme's dynamic fields can help save time and eliminate repetitive data entry.

Create custom fields like project names, addresses, contact information and more. Any changes made to these fields will automatically populate throughout the document.

6. Marketing Research Proposal Template

Marketing Research Proposal

Artificial intelligence (AI) is taking the world by storm and the marketing niche isn’t left out. With this eye-catching template, you can attract attention to your proposed marketing research project for an AI-driven platform.

The main goal of the research is to evaluate the platform's feasibility and marketing potential. To achieve this goal, the scope of work includes a comprehensive analysis of the market and competitors and pilot testing. The proposal also contains a budget overview that clearly outlines the allocation of funds, ensuring a well-planned and transparent approach.

Using Visme's Brand Design Tool , you can easily customize this template to suit your branding with just one click. Simply enter your URL into the brand wizard, and the tool will automatically extract your company logo, brand colors, and brand fonts . Once saved, you or your team members can apply the branding elements to any document. It's that simple!

7. Environmental Research Proposal Template

Environmental Research Proposal

The environmental research proposal example focuses on carbon emissions, identifies their contributing factors, and suggests sustainable practices to address them. It uses an appropriate sample size and data collection techniques to gather and evaluate data and provide sustainable recommendations to reduce industrial carbon footprints and waste.

From a design standpoint, the green and white color combination matches the theme of nature and environmental friendliness. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the proposal includes relevant images that support ecological advocacy, making it informative and visually aligned with its purpose.

A key feature of this template is its detailed breakdown of the project's timeline. It uses a Gantt chart to clearly present stages, milestones and deadlines.

Collaborate with your team members to customize these research proposal templates using Visme’s collaborative design features . These features allow you to leave feedback, draw annotations and even make live edits. Invite your teammates via email or a shareable link and allow them to work together on projects.

8. General Approval Research Proposal Template

General Approval Research Proposal

This research proposal template is a total game-changer - you can use it for any research proposal and customize it however you want. It features a modern and refreshing color scheme that immediately makes it stand out, providing a contemporary look that can adapt to any project's needs.

The template's layout is thoughtfully designed with primary fields that users can easily personalize by changing text, adjusting colors, or swapping images. No matter the research topic, you can tailor the template to fit your specific needs.

Once you're done customizing your research proposal template on Visme, you can download, share and publish it in different ways. For offline usage, you may download the proposal in PDF, PNG, or JPG format. To share it online, you can use a private or public link or generate a code snippet that you can embed anywhere on the web.

Want to create other types of proposals? Here are 29 proposal templates that you can easily customize in Visme.

Q. What Are the Five Steps of Writing a Research Proposal?

Follow these steps to write a solid research proposal:

  • Choose a topic within your field of study that can be explored and investigated.
  • Research existing literature and studies to build a foundational understanding and prepare your research question.
  • Outline your research proposal: introduction, literature review, proposed methodology, budget and timeline.
  • Conduct more detailed studies to strengthen your proposition, refine your research question and justify your methodology.
  • Follow your outline to write a clear and organized proposal, then review and edit for accuracy before submitting.

If you want to learn more about creating an expert research proposal , we highly recommend checking out our in-depth guide.

Q. How Long Is a Research Proposal?

Research proposals can range from 1,000 to 5,000 words. For smaller projects or when specific requirements aren't provided, aim for a concise and informative proposal that effectively outlines your research plan.

However, the ideal length depends on these factors:

  • Projects with complex methodologies or multiple phases may require longer proposals to explain the scope and procedures in detail.
  • Universities, academic institutions and funding agencies often have guidelines of a specific length. Always check their requirements beforehand.
  • When writing a proposal, adjust the level of study based on the audience. Academic proposals may require comprehensive explanations, while business or non-profit proposals require a more streamlined approach.

Q. How Long Does It Take to Write a Research Proposal?

The time it takes to write a research proposal depends on a few factors:

  • Complex research with extensive data collection or analysis will naturally take longer to plan and write about.
  • If you're new to writing research proposals, expect to spend more time learning the format and best practices.
  • If you've already conducted some research or a thorough literature review, the writing process might go faster.
  • Funding applications often have strict deadlines that will dictate your timeline.

Set aside several weeks to a couple of months for researching, writing, and revising your proposal. Start early to avoid stress and produce your best work.

Q. What Not to Do for a Research Proposal?

There are several factors that can make a research proposal weak. Here are some of the most common errors that you should avoid while preparing your research proposal:

  • Don’t choose a topic that’s too broad. Focus on a specific area you can thoroughly explore within your proposal’s limits.
  • Don’t ignore the rules for formatting and submitting your proposal. Always adhere to the requirements set by your institution or funding body.
  • Don’t forget to conduct a thorough literature review. It's crucial to show your grasp of existing research related to your topic.
  • Don't be vague about your methods. Ensure they're clearly defined and suitable for answering your research question.
  • Don't overlook errors in grammar, typos or structure. A well-proofread proposal reflects professionalism, so review it carefully before submitting it.

Craft Professional & Engaging Proposals with Visme

Writing a compelling research proposal takes effort, but with the right tools, the process becomes a breeze. Use the research proposal examples and templates in this article as a launching point to write your own proposal.

The best part? Visme provides easy-to-use tools with a vast collection of customizable templates, design elements and powerful features.

Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a student, Visme has the resources to help you create visually appealing and well-structured research proposals. In addition to research proposals, Visme helps you create many other document types, such as presentations , infographics , reports and more.

Ready to create your own research proposal? Check out Visme's proposal maker and start crafting professional and engaging proposals in minutes!

Create professional research proposals with Visme

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What Is a Research Proposal?

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When applying for a research grant or scholarship, or, just before you start a major research project, you may be asked to write a preliminary document that includes basic information about your future research. This is the information that is usually needed in your proposal:

  • The topic and goal of the research project.
  • The kind of result expected from the research.
  • The theory or framework in which the research will be done and presented.
  • What kind of methods will be used (statistical, empirical, etc.).
  • Short reference on the preliminary scholarship and why your research project is needed; how will it continue/justify/disprove the previous scholarship.
  • How much will the research project cost; how will it be budgeted (what for the money will be spent).
  • Why is it you who can do this research and not somebody else.

Most agencies that offer scholarships or grants provide information about the required format of the proposal. It may include filling out templates, types of information they need, suggested/maximum length of the proposal, etc.

Research proposal formats vary depending on the size of the planned research, the number of participants, the discipline, the characteristics of the research, etc. The following outline assumes an individual researcher. This is just a SAMPLE; several other ways are equally good and can be successful. If possible, discuss your research proposal with an expert in writing, a professor, your colleague, another student who already wrote successful proposals, etc.

  • Author, author's affiliation
  • Explain the topic and why you chose it. If possible explain your goal/outcome of the research . How much time you need to complete the research?
  • Give a brief summary of previous scholarship and explain why your topic and goals are important.
  • Relate your planned research to previous scholarship. What will your research add to our knowledge of the topic.
  • Break down the main topic into smaller research questions. List them one by one and explain why these questions need to be investigated. Relate them to previous scholarship.
  • Include your hypothesis into the descriptions of the detailed research issues if you have one. Explain why it is important to justify your hypothesis.
  • This part depends of the methods conducted in the research process. List the methods; explain how the results will be presented; how they will be assessed.
  • Explain what kind of results will justify or  disprove your hypothesis. 
  • Explain how much money you need.
  • Explain the details of the budget (how much you want to spend for what).
  • Describe why your research is important.
  • List the sources you have used for writing the research proposal, including a few main citations of the preliminary scholarship.

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by Evan Kramer

Motivation and scope

As master’s and PhD students, we all aspire to conduct quality research. The question many of us are faced with is: how do we formulate a research topic that is well poised for performing quality research? Research topics are meant to encompass the majority or entirety of our work during our graduate career and, when well-defined, can result in opportunities to publish several high-impact academic papers. The effort required to formulate a well-defined research topic is significant, but necessary to avoid running into unforeseen challenges during your PhD. This blog post discusses the concepts that should be considered for anyone looking to define their research topic. While students have varying degrees of autonomy in shaping their research due to funding constraints and advisor expectations, the concepts discussed in this blog post account for these facets and can serve as a framework for any situation.

Flowchart showing the steps in formulating a research topic described in this article.

Overview diagram of a framework for formulating a well-defined research topic.

What is quality research?

Quality research is independent , important , and unique .

This definition identifies a set of requirements that a research topic must meet. These requirements will be discussed in more detail to orient the research topic formulation process.

Independent – Independent research can be conducted entirely by you without assistance from outside sources. While you should actively seek collaborations with others to boost the reach of your work, will you be able to complete your research objectives without relying on resources provided by others? Framing your research topic and objectives in this manner gives you protection to flakey collaborators and will keep you on track to graduate on time. For example, something you may want to avoid is crafting a research topic around the usage of one particular data set maintained by a private company. While initial collaboration talks may go smoothly, you don’t want your ability to pursue your research project in the hands of someone else!

Important – Important research makes a contribution towards answering a specific question, or a gap in knowledge, among a research community that has been posed by several scholars. You may ask yourself: if you carry out your research to completion, will your contributions answer outstanding questions posed by multiple scholars in your research community? Note that the question your work addresses may not be explicitly posed in the literature, but identifying common limitations can help formulate a gap in knowledge that you can work towards filling. Aligning your research objectives with specific and commonly posed questions can increase the chance of your work being cited by other scholars and integrated into practices in industry. 

Unique – Unique research makes a first-of-its-kind contribution. There are several ways in which your research can be unique. For example, uniqueness may be assumed if you contribute the first work to a completely unanswered question in your field. Alternatively, you may make a unique contribution to a question that has already been addressed by approaching it in a new way. Knowledge of your chosen field’s state of the art and previous foundations is useful when checking the uniqueness of your work, which can only be verified by thorough literature review. Regardless of the way your research is unique, it is important to identify the uniqueness of your work within the context of existing work in related areas.

With these three research topic characteristics in mind, the following presents a high level path to formulating your well-defined research topic.

A framework for formulating a well-defined research topic

1. look inwards.

Based on previous experiences in coursework, internships, and extracurricular activities, create a two-column list. The first column lists research fields you found interesting. The second column lists ideas that align with your personal motivations for pursuing a career in STEM research. An example of this list may look like the following:

Space propulsion Reducing aerospace industry contributions to climate change
Aerospace controls Increasing equitable access to space capabilities for low-resource nations
Remote sensing Improving accessibility of space data for non-experts
High-speed aerodynamics Bolstering safety of space travel
LEO constellation astrodynamics Enabling efficient natural disaster response for remote communities

2. Read Widely

Given the two-column lists you created, start familiarizing yourself with the current state of the art. Starting with articles in popular science media outlets can be effective for initial cursory surveys. Any articles that pique your interest should be followed by deeper dives into related literature in Google Scholar. It is likely that several of the topics in the left column of your list get crossed off quickly when you realize they no longer interest you. Continue this process until a subset of around three areas remains. Your two-column list may then look like this:

Reducing aerospace industry contributions to climate change
Aerospace controls Increasing equitable access to space capabilities for low-resource nations
Remote sensing Improving accessibility of space data for non-experts
Bolstering safety of space travel
LEO constellation astrodynamics Enabling efficient natural disaster response for remote communities

Note that the right hand column remains unchanged. You very likely will not be able to address all of your personal motivations for pursuing STEM research in your eventual research topic, but now is when you can start connecting topics you find interesting to research applications that personally motivate you. 

3. Consider funding and lab focus areas

While the research topic definition process should be approached predominantly with your own interests in mind, at this stage, it is important to consider where your funding is coming from. Typically, there will be specific fields your research must overlap with based on your funding source. Schedule a discussion with your advisor to share your topic definition process so far and ask if there are topics you should add to your list based on research group and funding requirements. Based on this discussion, add a third column to the list you’ve created that describes the necessary areas of overlap for your research.

Reducing aerospace industry contributions to climate change AI applied to satellite operations
Aerospace controls Increasing equitable access to space capabilities for low-resource nations Testbed development for satellite dynamics and control algorithm testing
Remote sensing Improving accessibility of space data for non-experts Effects of the space environment on satellite operations
Bolstering safety of space travel
LEO constellation astrodynamics Enabling efficient natural disaster response for remote communities

4. Continue reading and form a research statement

At this point you are trying to iterate on combinations identified in your three-column list. You can begin to formulate an overarching research statement from these combinations. Research statements generally have the form “To…by…while…”. This sentence structure explicitly identifies what you are trying to accomplish, how you will accomplish it, and which constraints you will account for. A possible research statement could be defined with one entry from each column, or you may be able to create a topic with multiple entries from each column. In this blog’s example list, a research statement could be the following:

To enable efficient natural disaster response for remote communities by developing an AI-powered rapid response scheduling algorithm for a remote sensing satellite while accounting for limitations to satellite operations imposed by the space environment .

5. Iterate and keep track of your work

You may create a few iterations of overarching research statements like this. As you continue to read focused areas in the literature, formulate a focus area Venn Diagram. By allocating articles in your literature search to portions of the diagram, you can stay organized and keep track of the work you’re doing. For the example statement above, your Venn Diagram could look like this:

Venn diagram with three overlapping circles with the categories "Remote Sensing", "Effects of space environment", and "AI scheduling algorithms". At the intersection of all three regions is says "you".

Venn diagram of research topic focus areas. The most relevant literature review items can be added to each region of the diagram to track and organize your efforts.

At this point, you are well on your way to formalizing your research topic. The formalization step involves writing research questions, drafting objective statements, and identifying your research contributions. AeroAstro Communications Lab fellows can help you with these next steps through one-on-one appointments !

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  • 10 Research Question Examples to Guide Your Research Project

10 Research Question Examples to Guide your Research Project

Published on October 30, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on October 19, 2023.

The research question is one of the most important parts of your research paper , thesis or dissertation . It’s important to spend some time assessing and refining your question before you get started.

The exact form of your question will depend on a few things, such as the length of your project, the type of research you’re conducting, the topic , and the research problem . However, all research questions should be focused, specific, and relevant to a timely social or scholarly issue.

Once you’ve read our guide on how to write a research question , you can use these examples to craft your own.

Research question Explanation
The first question is not enough. The second question is more , using .
Starting with “why” often means that your question is not enough: there are too many possible answers. By targeting just one aspect of the problem, the second question offers a clear path for research.
The first question is too broad and subjective: there’s no clear criteria for what counts as “better.” The second question is much more . It uses clearly defined terms and narrows its focus to a specific population.
It is generally not for academic research to answer broad normative questions. The second question is more specific, aiming to gain an understanding of possible solutions in order to make informed recommendations.
The first question is too simple: it can be answered with a simple yes or no. The second question is , requiring in-depth investigation and the development of an original argument.
The first question is too broad and not very . The second question identifies an underexplored aspect of the topic that requires investigation of various  to answer.
The first question is not enough: it tries to address two different (the quality of sexual health services and LGBT support services). Even though the two issues are related, it’s not clear how the research will bring them together. The second integrates the two problems into one focused, specific question.
The first question is too simple, asking for a straightforward fact that can be easily found online. The second is a more question that requires and detailed discussion to answer.
? dealt with the theme of racism through casting, staging, and allusion to contemporary events? The first question is not  — it would be very difficult to contribute anything new. The second question takes a specific angle to make an original argument, and has more relevance to current social concerns and debates.
The first question asks for a ready-made solution, and is not . The second question is a clearer comparative question, but note that it may not be practically . For a smaller research project or thesis, it could be narrowed down further to focus on the effectiveness of drunk driving laws in just one or two countries.

Note that the design of your research question can depend on what method you are pursuing. Here are a few options for qualitative, quantitative, and statistical research questions.

Type of research Example question
Qualitative research question
Quantitative research question
Statistical research question

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Home » Proposal – Types, Examples, and Writing Guide

Proposal – Types, Examples, and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Proposal

Definition:

Proposal is a formal document or presentation that outlines a plan, idea, or project and seeks to persuade others to support or adopt it. Proposals are commonly used in business, academia, and various other fields to propose new initiatives, solutions to problems, research studies, or business ventures.

Proposal Layout

While the specific layout of a proposal may vary depending on the requirements or guidelines provided by the recipient, there are some common sections that are typically included in a standard proposal. Here’s a typical layout for a proposal:

  • The title of the proposal.
  • Your name or the name of your organization.
  • Date of submission.
  • A list of sections or headings with corresponding page numbers for easy navigation.
  • An overview of the proposal, highlighting its key points and benefits.
  • Summarize the problem or opportunity.
  • Outline the proposed solution or project.
  • Mention the expected outcomes or deliverables.
  • Keep it concise and compelling.
  • Provide background information about the issue or context.
  • Explain the purpose and objectives of the proposal.
  • Clarify the problem statement or opportunity that the proposal aims to address.
  • Describe in detail the methodology , approach , or plan to achieve the objectives.
  • Outline the steps or tasks involved in implementing the proposal.
  • Explain how the proposed solution or project will be executed.
  • Include a timeline or schedule to demonstrate the project’s timeline.
  • Define the specific activities, tasks, or services to be provided.
  • Clarify the deliverables and expected outcomes.
  • Mention any limitations or exclusions, if applicable.
  • Provide a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with the proposal.
  • Include itemized expenses such as personnel, materials, equipment, and any other relevant costs.
  • If applicable, include a justification for each cost.
  • Introduce the individuals or team members involved in the proposal.
  • Highlight their qualifications, expertise, and experience relevant to the project.
  • Include their roles and responsibilities.
  • Specify how the success of the proposal will be measured.
  • Define evaluation criteria and metrics to assess the outcomes.
  • Explain how progress will be tracked and reported.
  • Recap the main points of the proposal.
  • Reiterate the benefits and advantages of the proposed solution.
  • Emphasize the value and importance of supporting or adopting the proposal.
  • Include any additional documents, references, charts, graphs, or data that support your proposal.
  • These can include resumes, letters of support, financial projections, or relevant research materials.

Types of Types of Proposals

When it comes to proposals, there are various types depending on the context and purpose. Here are some common types of proposals:

Business Proposal

This type of proposal is used in the business world to present a plan, idea, or project to potential clients, investors, or partners. It typically includes an executive summary, problem statement, proposed solution, timeline, budget, and anticipated outcomes.

Project Proposal

A project proposal is a detailed document that outlines the objectives, scope, methodology, deliverables, and budget of a specific project. It is used to seek approval and funding from stakeholders or clients.

Research Proposal

Research proposals are commonly used in academic or scientific settings. They outline the research objectives, methodology, timeline, expected outcomes, and potential significance of a research study. These proposals are submitted to funding agencies, universities, or research institutions.

Grant Proposal

Non-profit organizations, researchers, or individuals seeking funding for a project or program often write grant proposals. These proposals provide a detailed plan of the project, including goals, methods, budget, and expected outcomes, to convince grant-making bodies to provide financial support.

Sales Proposal

Sales proposals are used by businesses to pitch their products or services to potential customers. They typically include information about the product/service, pricing, features, benefits, and a persuasive argument to encourage the recipient to make a purchase.

Sponsorship Proposal

When seeking sponsorship for an event, sports team, or individual, a sponsorship proposal is created. It outlines the benefits for the sponsor, the exposure they will receive, and the financial or in-kind support required.

Marketing Proposal

A marketing proposal is developed by marketing agencies or professionals to present their strategies and tactics to potential clients. It includes an analysis of the target market, proposed marketing activities, budget, and expected results.

Policy Proposal

In the realm of government or public policy, individuals or organizations may create policy proposals to suggest new laws, regulations, or changes to existing policies. These proposals typically provide an overview of the issue, the proposed solution, supporting evidence, and potential impacts.

Training Proposal

Organizations often create training proposals to propose a training program for their employees. These proposals outline the training objectives, topics to be covered, training methods, resources required, and anticipated outcomes.

Partnership Proposal

When two or more organizations or individuals wish to collaborate or form a partnership, a partnership proposal is used to present the benefits, shared goals, responsibilities, and terms of the proposed partnership.

Event Proposal

Event planners or individuals organizing an event, such as a conference, concert, or wedding, may create an event proposal. It includes details about the event concept, venue, logistics, budget, marketing plan, and anticipated attendee experience.

Technology Proposal

Technology proposals are used to present new technological solutions, system upgrades, or IT projects to stakeholders or decision-makers. These proposals outline the technology requirements, implementation plan, costs, and anticipated benefits.

Construction Proposal

Contractors or construction companies create construction proposals to bid on construction projects. These proposals include project specifications, cost estimates, timelines, materials, and construction methodologies.

Book Proposal

Authors or aspiring authors create book proposals to pitch their book ideas to literary agents or publishers. These proposals include a synopsis of the book, target audience, marketing plan, author’s credentials, and sample chapters.

Social Media Proposal

Social media professionals or agencies create social media proposals to present their strategies for managing social media accounts, creating content, and growing online presence. These proposals include an analysis of the current social media presence, proposed tactics, metrics for success, and pricing.

Training and Development Proposal

Similar to training proposals, these proposals focus on the overall development and growth of employees within an organization. They may include plans for leadership development, skill enhancement, or professional certification programs.

Consulting Proposal

Consultants create consulting proposals to present their services and expertise to potential clients. These proposals outline the problem statement, proposed approach, scope of work, timeline, deliverables, and fees.

Policy Advocacy Proposal

Organizations or individuals seeking to influence public policy or advocate for a particular cause create policy advocacy proposals. These proposals present research, evidence, and arguments to support a specific policy change or reform.

Website Design Proposal

Web designers or agencies create website design proposals to pitch their services to clients. These proposals outline the project scope, design concepts, development process, timeline, and pricing.

Environmental Proposal

Environmental proposals are created to address environmental issues or propose conservation initiatives. These proposals may include strategies for renewable energy, waste management, biodiversity preservation, or sustainable practices.

Health and Wellness Proposal

Proposals related to health and wellness can cover a range of topics, such as wellness programs, community health initiatives, healthcare system improvements, or health education campaigns.

Human Resources (HR) Proposal

HR professionals may create HR proposals to introduce new policies, employee benefits programs, performance evaluation systems, or employee training initiatives within an organization.

Nonprofit Program Proposal

Nonprofit organizations seeking funding or support for a specific program or project create nonprofit program proposals. These proposals outline the program’s objectives, activities, target beneficiaries, budget, and expected outcomes.

Government Contract Proposal

When bidding for government contracts, businesses or contractors create government contract proposals. These proposals include details about the project, compliance with regulations, cost estimates, and qualifications.

Product Development Proposal

Businesses or individuals seeking to develop and launch a new product present product development proposals. These proposals outline the product concept, market analysis, development process, production costs, and marketing strategies.

Feasibility Study Proposal

Feasibility study proposals are used to assess the viability and potential success of a project or business idea. These proposals include market research, financial analysis, risk assessment, and recommendations for implementation.

Educational Program Proposal

Educational institutions or organizations create educational program proposals to introduce new courses, curricula, or educational initiatives. These proposals outline the program objectives, learning outcomes, curriculum design, and resource requirements.

Social Service Proposal

Organizations involved in social services, such as healthcare, community development, or social welfare, create social service proposals to seek funding, support, or partnerships. These proposals outline the social issue, proposed interventions, anticipated impacts, and sustainability plans.

Proposal Writing Guide

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with proposal writing:

  • Understand the Requirements: Before you begin writing your proposal, carefully review any guidelines, instructions, or requirements provided by the recipient or organization. This will ensure that you meet their expectations and include all necessary information.
  • Research and Gather Information: Conduct thorough research on the topic or project you are proposing. Collect relevant data, statistics, case studies, and any supporting evidence that strengthens your proposal. This will demonstrate your knowledge and credibility.
  • Define the Problem or Opportunity: Clearly identify and articulate the problem or opportunity that your proposal aims to address. Provide a concise and compelling explanation of why it is important and relevant.
  • State Your Objectives: Outline the specific objectives or goals of your proposal. What do you hope to achieve? Make sure your objectives are clear, measurable, and aligned with the needs of the recipient.
  • Present Your Solution: Propose your solution or approach to the problem. Describe how your solution is unique, innovative, and effective. Provide a step-by-step plan or methodology, highlighting key activities, deliverables, and timelines.
  • Demonstrate Benefits and Impact: Clearly outline the benefits and impact of your proposal. Explain how it will add value, solve the problem, or create positive change. Use evidence and examples to support your claims.
  • Develop a Budget: If applicable, include a detailed budget that outlines the costs associated with implementing your proposal. Be transparent and realistic about expenses, and clearly explain how the funding will be allocated.
  • Address Potential Risks and Mitigation Strategies: Identify any potential risks, challenges, or obstacles that may arise during the implementation of your proposal. Offer strategies or contingency plans to mitigate these risks and ensure the success of your project.
  • Provide Supporting Documentation: Include any supporting documents that add credibility to your proposal. This may include resumes or bios of key team members, letters of support or partnership, relevant certifications, or past success stories.
  • Write Clearly and Concisely: Use clear and concise language to communicate your ideas effectively. Avoid jargon or technical terms that may confuse or alienate the reader. Structure your proposal with headings, subheadings, and bullet points to enhance readability.
  • Proofread and Edit: Carefully review your proposal for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors. Ensure that it is well-organized, coherent, and flows logically. Consider asking someone else to review it for feedback and suggestions.
  • Include a Professional Cover Letter: If appropriate, attach a cover letter introducing your proposal. This letter should summarize the key points, express your enthusiasm, and provide contact information for further discussion.
  • Follow Submission Instructions: Follow the specific instructions for submitting your proposal. This may include submitting it electronically, mailing it, or delivering it in person. Pay attention to submission deadlines and any additional requirements.
  • Follow Up: After submitting your proposal, consider following up with the recipient to ensure they received it and address any questions or concerns they may have. This shows your commitment and professionalism.

Purpose of Proposal

The purpose of a proposal is to present a plan, idea, project, or solution to a specific audience in a persuasive and compelling manner. Proposals are typically written documents that aim to:

  • Convince and Persuade: The primary purpose of a proposal is to convince the recipient or decision-makers to accept and support the proposed plan or idea. It is important to present a strong case, providing evidence, logical reasoning, and clear benefits to demonstrate why the proposal should be approved.
  • Seek Approval or Funding: Proposals often seek approval or funding for a project, program, research study, business venture, or initiative. The purpose is to secure the necessary resources, whether financial, human, or technical, to implement the proposed endeavor.
  • Solve Problems or Address Opportunities: Proposals are often developed in response to a problem, challenge, or opportunity. The purpose is to provide a well-thought-out solution or approach that effectively addresses the issue or leverages the opportunity for positive outcomes.
  • Present a Comprehensive Plan : Proposals outline a comprehensive plan, including objectives, strategies, methodologies, timelines, budgets, and anticipated outcomes. The purpose is to demonstrate the feasibility, practicality, and potential success of the proposed plan.
  • Inform and Educate: Proposals provide detailed information and analysis to educate the audience about the subject matter. They offer a thorough understanding of the problem or opportunity, the proposed solution, and the potential impact.
  • Establish Credibility: Proposals aim to establish the credibility and expertise of the individual or organization presenting the proposal. They demonstrate the knowledge, experience, qualifications, and track record that make the proposer capable of successfully executing the proposed plan.
  • I nitiate Collaboration or Partnerships: Proposals may serve as a means to initiate collaboration, partnerships, or contractual agreements. They present an opportunity for individuals, organizations, or entities to work together towards a common goal or project.
  • Provide a Basis for Decision-Making: Proposals offer the information and analysis necessary for decision-makers to evaluate the merits and feasibility of the proposed plan. They provide a framework for informed decision-making, allowing stakeholders to assess the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes.

When to write a Proposal

Proposals are typically written in various situations when you need to present a plan, idea, or project to a specific audience. Here are some common scenarios when you may need to write a proposal:

  • Business Opportunities: When you identify a business opportunity, such as a potential client or partnership, you may write a proposal to pitch your products, services, or collaboration ideas.
  • Funding or Grants: If you require financial support for a project, research study, non-profit program, or any initiative, you may need to write a proposal to seek funding from government agencies, foundations, or philanthropic organizations.
  • Project Planning: When you plan to undertake a project, whether it’s a construction project, software development, event organization, or any other endeavor, writing a project proposal helps outline the objectives, deliverables, timelines, and resource requirements.
  • Research Studies: In academic or scientific settings, researchers write research proposals to present their study objectives, research questions, methodology, anticipated outcomes, and potential significance to funding bodies, universities, or research institutions.
  • Business Development: If you’re expanding your business, launching a new product or service, or entering a new market, writing a business proposal helps outline your plans, strategies, market analysis, and financial projections to potential investors or partners.
  • Partnerships and Collaborations: When seeking partnerships, collaborations, or joint ventures with other organizations or individuals, writing a partnership proposal helps communicate the benefits, shared goals, responsibilities, and terms of the proposed partnership.
  • Policy or Advocacy Initiatives: When advocating for a particular cause, addressing public policy issues, or proposing policy changes, writing a policy proposal helps outline the problem, proposed solutions, supporting evidence, and potential impacts.
  • Contract Bidding: If you’re bidding for contracts, whether in government or private sectors, writing a proposal is necessary to present your capabilities, expertise, resources, and pricing to potential clients or procurement departments.
  • Consulting or Service Contracts: If you offer consulting services, professional expertise, or specialized services, writing a proposal helps outline your approach, deliverables, fees, and timeline to potential clients.

Importance of Proposal

Proposals play a significant role in numerous areas and have several important benefits. Here are some key reasons why proposals are important:

  • Communication and Clarity: Proposals serve as a formal means of communication, allowing you to clearly articulate your plan, idea, or project to others. By presenting your proposal in a structured format, you ensure that your message is conveyed effectively, minimizing misunderstandings and confusion.
  • Decision-Making Tool: Proposals provide decision-makers with the necessary information and analysis to make informed choices. They offer a comprehensive overview of the proposal, including objectives, strategies, timelines, budgets, and anticipated outcomes. This enables stakeholders to evaluate the proposal’s feasibility, alignment with goals, and potential return on investment.
  • Accountability and Documentation: Proposals serve as a written record of commitments, responsibilities, and expectations. Once a proposal is approved, it becomes a reference point for all parties involved, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and accountable for their roles and obligations.
  • Planning and Organization: Writing a proposal requires thorough planning and organization. It compels you to define objectives, outline strategies, consider potential risks, and create a timeline. This process helps you think critically about the proposal, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas that require further refinement.
  • Persuasion and Influence: Proposals are persuasive documents that aim to convince others to support or approve your plan. By presenting a well-constructed proposal, supported by evidence, logical reasoning, and benefits, you enhance your ability to influence decision-makers and stakeholders.
  • Resource Allocation and Funding: Many proposals are written to secure resources, whether financial, human, or technical. A compelling proposal can increase the likelihood of obtaining funding, grants, or other resources needed to execute a project or initiative successfully.
  • Partnership and Collaboration Opportunities: Proposals enable you to seek partnerships, collaborations, or joint ventures with other organizations or individuals. By presenting a clear proposal that outlines the benefits, shared goals, responsibilities, and terms, you increase the likelihood of forming mutually beneficial relationships.
  • Professionalism and Credibility: A well-written proposal demonstrates professionalism, expertise, and credibility. It showcases your ability to analyze complex issues, develop effective strategies, and present ideas in a concise and persuasive manner. This can enhance your reputation and increase trust among stakeholders.
  • Continual Improvement: The process of writing proposals encourages you to refine your ideas, explore alternatives, and seek feedback. It provides an opportunity for reflection and refinement, ultimately leading to continuous improvement in your plans and approaches.

About the author

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Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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A bi-objective model for the multi-period inventory-based reverse logistics network: a case study from an automobile component distribution network.

proposed research topic

1. Introduction

  • To optimize the transportation system in the ISACO company.
  • To cut down transportation costs.
  • To increase customer satisfaction by increasing the supply of customer demands.
  • To allow the customers to return unused parts (which are not used by customers due to seasonal variations or environmental changes and market fluctuations.
  • To collect and dispose or recycle the stock parts.

2. Literature Review

2.1. a review of the literature on distribution systems in supply chain management, 2.2. a review of the literature on green logistics in supply chain management, 3. materials and methods.

  • Very high transportation costs induced by long round-trip distances.
  • High costs imposed on the company as a result of vehicle breakdown.
  • Frequent troubles related to timely goods delivery (e.g., the cities located far from Tehran, the chances are high that the goods do not reach on time).
  • To benefit from the full capacity of cars, it is required that the amount of the ordered goods reach a certain quantity and then the goods be delivered to the representatives, which leads to dissatisfaction among the representatives and losing the competitive market.
  • The lack of order and prioritization in the current system.
  • Not considering different scenarios in decision making.
  • Not being able to return unused or low-use parts by the representatives.
  • The lack of an integrated system for receiving scrap parts.
  • Not able to implement strategic planning.
  • Some of the expected merits of the new system are the following:
  • Reducing the costs resulting from redundant transportation.
  • Increasing the representatives’ satisfaction level due to goods’ timely delivery and increasing the power to supply the demanded goods and the possibility of returning low-use parts to the representative.
  • Systematizing transportation system which curbs other nuisances.
  • Increasing the flexibility of the system.
  • Decreasing the risks such as the sensitive parts becoming faulty during long transportation or the possibility of vehicle breakdowns that impose losses on the company.
  • Building regional warehouses and reducing the heavy costs of the central warehouse.
  • Controlling the system better and the potential to constantly improve.

5. Discussion and Conclusions

  • Employing a multi-period model along with the power of inventory management so that it leads to reduced costs and increased revenue.
  • With respect to the variety of available products, the number of product groups should be increased and included in the proposed model.
  • Reducing the time of ordering periods to better use the multi-period model, supplying faster and more up-to-date customer demands in the year, and removing the barriers of the inventory cost increase through modeling and making decisions at the tactical and operational level.
  • Raising the number of customers and applying the proposed model to the actual number of customers. It is worth mentioning that in this model, they were integrated into the provincial centers to facilitate the modeling of customer demand.
  • Constructing regional warehouses in the locations suggested by the model outputs considering the construction cost and setting up and storing the goods in these warehouses.
  • Launching the central warehouse number 2 when its effectiveness gets approved in all the models to properly benefit from it.
  • Regularly controlling the proposed performance evaluation indices considering the possibility of changing the supply or demand pattern and making suitable decisions accordingly.
  • Investigating the demand pattern in various time periods and the possibility of presenting a supplementary model for the probability mode of demand.
  • Investigating the profit from waste recycling.
  • Investigating the benefits of the brand’s mental image in terms of compliance with environmental issues.
  • Considering production issues in the supply chain and distribution system.
  • Including the demand of the different classes of customers in the distribution system and locating facilities; accordingly, in other words, assessing the effect of marketing decisions on the strategic macro-decisions of facility location.
  • Considering other location benchmarks.
  • Determining the order supply deadline for all sorts of goods orders and programming to supply them within the deadline and its effect on facility location problems.
  • Considering other objective functions like social aspects, employment rates, and environmental impacts according to the priorities of managers and decision-makers.

Author Contributions

Data availability statement, conflicts of interest.

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Variable TitleValue
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Z 96%
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Criterion Illustration Criterion Components Basic Model Basic Model with Inventory Management Multi-Period Basic Model with Inventory ManagementMulti-Period Basic Model with Inventory Management and Green Logistics
Overall Satisfaction of Customers 85%92%94%96%
Total Costs 3.32 × 10 4.37 × 10 1.42 × 10 1.43 × 10
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Khalilzadeh, M.; Antucheviciene, J.; Božanić, D. A Bi-Objective Model for the Multi-Period Inventory-Based Reverse Logistics Network: A Case Study from an Automobile Component Distribution Network. Systems 2024 , 12 , 299. https://doi.org/10.3390/systems12080299

Khalilzadeh M, Antucheviciene J, Božanić D. A Bi-Objective Model for the Multi-Period Inventory-Based Reverse Logistics Network: A Case Study from an Automobile Component Distribution Network. Systems . 2024; 12(8):299. https://doi.org/10.3390/systems12080299

Khalilzadeh, Mohammad, Jurgita Antucheviciene, and Darko Božanić. 2024. "A Bi-Objective Model for the Multi-Period Inventory-Based Reverse Logistics Network: A Case Study from an Automobile Component Distribution Network" Systems 12, no. 8: 299. https://doi.org/10.3390/systems12080299

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    Ingredient #1 - Topic/Title Header. Your research proposal's title should be your main research question in its simplest form, possibly with a sub-heading providing basic details on the specifics of the study. For example: "Compliance with equality legislation in the charity sector: a study of the 'reasonable adjustments' made in ...

  8. How to write a research proposal

    A research proposal is a concise and coherent summary of your proposed research. You'll need to set out the issues that are central to the topic area and how you intend to address them with your research. To do this, you'll need to give the following: an outline of the general area of study within which your research falls.

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

    Writing a research proposal template in structured steps ensures a comprehensive and coherent presentation of your research project. Let's look at the explanation for each of the steps here: Step 1: Title and Abstract. Step 2: Introduction. Step 3: Research objectives. Step 4: Literature review.

  10. How to Write a Research Proposal

    How to Write a Research Proposal | A Guide for Students. Published on June 22, 2024 by Paige Pfeifer, BA. A research proposal is a short piece of academic writing that outlines the research a graduate student intends to carry out. It starts by explaining why the research will be helpful or necessary, then describes the steps of the potential research and how the research project would add ...

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

    Before conducting a study, a research proposal should be created that outlines researchers' plans and methodology and is submitted to the concerned evaluating organization or person. Creating a research proposal is an important step to ensure that researchers are on track and are moving forward as intended. A research proposal can be defined as a detailed plan or blueprint for the proposed ...

  12. How to Write a Research Proposal

    Introduces your topic. States your problem statement and the questions your research aims to answer. Provides context for your research. In a research proposal, an introduction can be a few paragraphs long. It should be concise, but don't feel like you need to cram all of your information into one paragraph.

  13. 17 Research Proposal Examples (2024)

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

  14. 265 Powerful Research Proposal Topics to Consider

    Expose your thoughts on one of the political science research proposal topics we have chosen for you. African-American political science: 14th amendment. Political environment: democrats and republicans. The relation between climate and politics. Political activism: "Forces of Labor" by Beverly Silver.

  15. Research Proposal Template (Free Template for Academics)

    A research proposal format is usually as follows: 1. abstract (a brief description of the topic) 2. introduction 3. literature review (to demonstrate that you have done your homework and know what to base your work on) 4. explanation of originality of your research 5. main objectives 6. methods 7. proposed contents 8. limitations 9. timeline 10 ...

  16. 8 Research Proposal Examples & Template to Use

    Customize this template and make it your own! Edit and Download. 8 Research Proposal Examples & Templates. Using these research proposal examples and templates, you can create a winning proposal in no time. You will find templates for various topics and customize every aspect of them to make them your own.

  17. How To Write A Research Proposal

    Here is an explanation of each step: 1. Title and Abstract. Choose a concise and descriptive title that reflects the essence of your research. Write an abstract summarizing your research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. It should provide a brief overview of your proposal. 2.

  18. How To Write A Proposal

    Develop an Outline. Create a clear and logical structure: Divide your proposal into sections or headings that will guide your readers through the content. Introduction: Provide a concise overview of the problem, its significance, and the proposed solution. Background/Context: Offer relevant background information and context to help the readers ...

  19. Writing a Research Proposal

    When applying for a research grant or scholarship, or, just before you start a major research project, you may be asked to write a preliminary document that includes basic information about your future research. This is the information that is usually needed in your proposal: The topic and goal of the research project.

  20. List of Great Topics for Research Proposals

    Business Research Proposal Topics. Analyze the effects of automation on small businesses. Examine the implications of working long hours in the workplace. Discuss proven approaches for successful business operations. Explore effective marketing strategies for various kinds of businesses. Share creative tactics to make an impactful sales pitch.

  21. Research Proposal

    Academic Research Proposal. This is the most common type of research proposal, which is prepared by students, scholars, or researchers to seek approval and funding for an academic research project. It includes all the essential components mentioned earlier, such as the introduction, literature review, methodology, and expected outcomes.

  22. How to Choose a Dissertation Topic

    Step 3: Look for books and articles. Step 4: Find a niche. Step 5: Consider the type of research. Step 6: Determine the relevance. Step 7: Make sure it's plausible. Step 8: Get your topic approved. Other interesting articles. Frequently asked questions about dissertation topics.

  23. Formulating a Research Topic : AeroAstro Communication Lab

    A framework for formulating a well-defined research topic . 1. Look inwards. Based on previous experiences in coursework, internships, and extracurricular activities, create a two-column list. The first column lists research fields you found interesting. The second column lists ideas that align with your personal motivations for pursuing a ...

  24. 10 Research Question Examples to Guide your Research Project

    The first question asks for a ready-made solution, and is not focused or researchable. The second question is a clearer comparative question, but note that it may not be practically feasible. For a smaller research project or thesis, it could be narrowed down further to focus on the effectiveness of drunk driving laws in just one or two countries.

  25. Topic Proposals (Eng. 272G)

    Topic Proposals (Eng. 272G) As you continue on in the academic world, 300, 400, 500, and graduate-level courses will ask you to do several types of preparatory assignments prior to a major research paper. The longer the paper, the more detailed the topic proposal should ideally be.

  26. Proposal

    Proposal. Definition: Proposal is a formal document or presentation that outlines a plan, idea, or project and seeks to persuade others to support or adopt it. Proposals are commonly used in business, academia, and various other fields to propose new initiatives, solutions to problems, research studies, or business ventures.

  27. Office of Research Events on August 14

    Office of Research Events Calendar, powered by Localist, the Community Event Platform ... Topic Subscribe to Displayed Results. Save to Google Calendar Save to iCal Save to Outlook Save to RSS. Cancel Apply filters. Thursday, August 15. GRASP Class 2: Proposal Process & Budget Development . Virtual Event Office of Research. Thu, Aug 15, 2024 ...

  28. NOAA seeks proposals to advance climate research

    Through its annual grant competitions, CPO seeks and funds innovative researchers across the nation to conduct cutting-edge research on a range of topics. The researchers eligible to apply include partners across NOAA as well as tribal nations and the broader academic, federal, international and private sector communities. Letters of intent due ...

  29. SEC.gov

    Notice of Designation of a Longer Period for Commission Action on Proposed Rule Change to Amend Section 703.12(II) of the NYSE Listed Company Manual to Expand the Circumstances Under Which Rights May Be Listed on the NYSE

  30. Systems

    Supply chain management and distribution network design has attracted the attention of many researchers in recent years. The timely satisfaction of customer demands leads to reducing costs, improving service levels, and increasing customer satisfaction. For this purpose, in this research, the mathematical programming models for a two-level distribution network including central warehouses ...