What’s Included: Research Proposal Template
Our free dissertation/thesis proposal template covers the core essential ingredients for a strong research proposal. It includes clear explanations of what you need to address in each section, as well as straightforward examples and links to further resources.
The research proposal template covers the following core elements:
- Introduction & background (including the research problem)
- Literature review
- Research design / methodology
- Project plan , resource requirements and risk management
The cleanly-formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX.
PS – if you’d like a high-level template for the entire thesis, you can we’ve got that too .
Research Proposal Template FAQS
What types of research proposals can this template be used for.
The proposal template follows the standard format for academic research projects, which means it will be suitable for the vast majority of dissertations and theses (especially those within the sciences), whether they are qualitative or quantitative in terms of design.
Keep in mind that the exact requirements for the introduction chapter/section will vary between universities and degree programs. These are typically minor, but it’s always a good idea to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalise your structure.
Is this template for an undergrad, Master or PhD-level proposal?
This template can be used for a research project at any level of study. Doctoral-level projects typically require the research proposal to be more extensive/comprehensive, but the structure will typically remain the same.
How long should my research proposal be?
The length of a research proposal varies by institution and subject, but as a ballpark, it’s usually between 1,500 and 3,000 words.
To be safe, it’s best to check with your university if they have any preferences or requirements in terms of minimum and maximum word count for the research propsal.
How detailed should the methodology of the proposal be?
You don’t need to go into the fine details of your methodology, but this section should be detailed enough to demonstrate that your research approach is feasible and will address your research questions effectively. Be sure to include your intended methods for data collection and analysis.
Can I include preliminary data or pilot study results in my proposal?
Generally, yes. This can strengthen your proposal by demonstrating the feasibility of your research. However, make sure that your pilot study is approved by your university before collecting any data.
Can I share this template with my friends/colleagues?
Yes, you’re welcome to share this template in its original format (no editing allowed). If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, we kindly request that you reference this page as your source.
What format is the template (DOC, PDF, PPT, etc.)?
The research proposal template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.
Do you have templates for the other chapters?
Yes, we do. We are constantly developing our collection of free resources to help students complete their dissertations and theses. You can view all of our template resources here .
Can Grad Coach help me with my dissertation/thesis?
Yes, you’re welcome to get in touch with us to discuss our private coaching services .
Further Resources: Proposal Writing
The template provides step-by-step guidance for each section of your research proposal, but if you’d like to learn more about how to write up a high-quality research proposal, check out the rest of our free proposal-related resources:
- Research Proposal 101
- Examples of research proposals
- How To Find A Research Topic
- How To Find A Research Gap
- Developing Your Golden Thread
- How To Write A Research Proposal
- 8 Common Proposal Writing Mistakes
You can also visit the Grad Coach blog for more proposal-related resources.
If you’d prefer 1-on-1 support with your research proposal, have a look at our private coaching service , where we hold your hand through the research process, step by step.
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Examples of research proposals
How to write your research proposal, with examples of good proposals.
Research proposals
Your research proposal is a key part of your application. It tells us about the question you want to answer through your research. It is a chance for you to show your knowledge of the subject area and tell us about the methods you want to use.
We use your research proposal to match you with a supervisor or team of supervisors.
In your proposal, please tell us if you have an interest in the work of a specific academic at York St John. You can get in touch with this academic to discuss your proposal. You can also speak to one of our Research Leads. There is a list of our Research Leads on the Apply page.
When you write your proposal you need to:
- Highlight how it is original or significant
- Explain how it will develop or challenge current knowledge of your subject
- Identify the importance of your research
- Show why you are the right person to do this research
- Research Proposal Example 1 (DOC, 49kB)
- Research Proposal Example 2 (DOC, 0.9MB)
- Research Proposal Example 3 (DOC, 55.5kB)
- Research Proposal Example 4 (DOC, 49.5kB)
Subject specific guidance
- Writing a Humanities PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
- Writing a Creative Writing PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
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Learn how to write a research proposal with two successful examples (Master's and PhD) and a free template. Download PDF or Word files and access more resources and coaching.
A Sample Research Proposal with Comments A research project or thesis will take at least two semesters to complete. Prior to starting a research, i.e. enrolling in the first semester research course, students must go through the proposal stage, during which students will develop their proposal and have it reviewed by his/her research advisor. ...
Learn how to write a research proposal for your thesis, dissertation, or funding application. Find out the essential elements, format, and tips for different fields and purposes.
Research Proposal Format Example. 1. Research Proposal Format Example. Following is a general outline of the material that should be included in your project proposal. I. Title Page II. Introduction and Literature Review (Chapters 2 and 3) A. Identification of specific problem area (e.g., what is it, why it is important). B.
Find two examples of proposals for postgraduate research in social policy and criminology. Learn how to structure, write and develop your own research proposal with reference lists and methodology.
Learn how to write an effective research proposal with this guide and an example. See the steps, components, and tips for developing and organizing your proposal.
1 of 5. Research Proposals. Writing a research proposal is the first step for a research project. Before you can work on your research, it must be approved, whether that is by a professor, thesis advisor, or supervisor. It is essential to make your proposal as strong as possible; if your proposal is denied, you may not get the funding you need ...
institution you are applying to. However, if you are not given any guidelines on how to format your research proposal, you could adopt the suggested structure below. This is also relevant if you are applying for external funding or asking your employer to sponsor you to undertake a research degree. Suggested structure for a research proposal:
Download a free dissertation/thesis proposal template that covers the core essential ingredients for a strong research proposal. The template is editable and can be converted to LaTeX, and includes clear explanations, examples and links to further resources.
Guidance for PhD applicants on how to write a 1,500 word research proposal for the Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge. Learn what to cover, how to structure, and what to avoid in your proposal.
Most good research proposals are usually between 2000 and 4000 words in length. A strong research proposal can and should make a positive first impression about your potential to become a good researcher. It should show those reading it that your ideas are focused, interesting and realistic. Although you should write the proposal yourself, it ...
A suggested format for a research proposal with sections such as cover page, abstract, introduction, literature review, theoretical framework, materials and methods, data analysis, limitations and references. The example is from the Faculty of Health, Engineering and Science at Edith Cowan University.
A book by George Damaskinidis and Anastasia Christodoulou that guides researchers in designing and writing research proposals for higher education contexts. The book covers topics such as research area, topic, question, hypothesis, conceptual framework, research strategy, methods, design, and assessment criteria.
The research proposal is a summary of the plan you are contemplating for carr ying out in the form. of a dissertation - by making you put it down into a standard format and r equiring you to ...
A PDF document with a sample research proposal for a master's or doctoral degree in engineering. It covers background, objective, scope, methodology, facilities, budget, deliverables and references.
Find out how to write your research proposal for a postgraduate degree at York St John. Download examples of good proposals in different subject areas and get tips from Research Leads.
This is a sample proposal for a qualitative study on language brokering in Mexican immigrant families living in the Midwest. It introduces the research problem, purpose, questions, and methods of the proposed dissertation.
A handout for health sciences researchers conducting quantitative, clinical research. It covers the elements, keys and quality of a research proposal, with examples and tips.
Before writing up a research proposal, it is essential to: identify the sponsors for the research. read and understand application guidelines from sponsors /. clients, e.g., Universities, Ministry ...
A Sample Quantitative Research Proposal Written in the APA 6th Style. [Note: This sample proposal is based on a composite of past proposals, simulated information and references, and material I've included for illustration purposes - it is based roughly on a fairly standard research proposal; I say roughly because there is no one set way of ...
Research Proposal Sample 2: PhD research proposal John Smith, Autumn 2009 Proposed supervisor: Hugh Grant Computer support of creativity in music compositionfor cinema and television Overview My research will be at the junction of three areas: creativity support, musical composition and human-computer interaction.
Learn how to prepare a research proposal for different levels of study, from B.Tech to PhD, at the University of Johannesburg. Find out the academic merit, layout and format requirements, and referencing methods for your proposal.
Abstract and Figures. The present document provides guidelines for writing an excellent and relevant research proposal at MSc as well as at PhD level. Writing a meticulous proposal will help ...
4. Do Your Research. A winning project proposal includes thorough research and knowing the ins and outs, backwards and forwards. Be sure you can back up your problem - and solution - with reputable sources via outlets such as case studies, customer testimonials, user analytics, statistics or charts. 5. Utilize the Smart Method When Setting Goals
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