example of concept note in research

How to Write a Concept Note: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Concept notes are important documents that serve as a brief outline of a project. They are used to present a proposed project to potential stakeholders and funders, and are usually requested before a full project proposal is submitted. If you are planning to embark on a new project, it is essential to know how to write a concept note. In this guide, we'll take you through the step-by-step process of writing a winning concept note.

Understanding the Purpose of a Concept Note

Before we delve into the details of how to write a concept note, it is important to understand its purpose. A concept note serves several functions:

What is a Concept Note?

A concept note is a brief outline of a project proposal, usually submitted to potential stakeholders and funders to solicit their support.

Let’s take an example of a non-profit organization that wants to start a new project to provide education to underprivileged children. The organization will need funding and support from donors to make this project a success. To attract potential donors, the organization will need to submit a concept note that outlines the basic details of the project.

Why is a Concept Note Important?

Concept notes are important because they help to identify potential stakeholders and funders for a proposed project. By providing a brief overview of the project, concept notes help to gauge interest and support. This is especially important when dealing with multiple potential stakeholders and funders, as it allows the organization to tailor their proposal to the interests of each party.

Moreover, concept notes help organizations to save time and resources. Instead of preparing a full proposal for every potential stakeholder or funder, concept notes can be used to filter out those who are not interested in the project, allowing the organization to focus on those who are.

When to Use a Concept Note?

Concept notes are usually requested by potential stakeholders and funders before a full project proposal is submitted. They can also be used to introduce a new project to an organization or community. In addition, concept notes can be used as a tool for internal planning and decision-making.

For example, a company may use a concept note to introduce a new product or service to its employees before launching it to the public. This allows the company to gather feedback and make any necessary changes before investing resources into a full launch.

In conclusion, concept notes are an important tool for organizations to attract support and funding for their projects. By providing a brief overview of the project, concept notes help to gauge interest and support, saving time and resources. They can be used to introduce new projects to stakeholders and funders, as well as for internal planning and decision-making.

Key Components of a Concept Note

The following are key components that should be included when writing a concept note:

Project Title

The project title should be clear and concise. It should capture the essence of the project in a few words.

Project Objective

The project objective should be clearly stated, and should contain a succinct statement of what the project intends to achieve.

Background and Context

The background and context should provide an overview of the problem that the project intends to address. It should also highlight the relevance of the problem to the target audience and the broader community.

Target Audience and Beneficiaries

The target audience and beneficiaries should be clearly identified. This helps to ensure that the project is designed to meet the needs of the intended beneficiaries.

Project Activities and Methodology

The project activities and methodology should describe the specific steps that will be taken to achieve the project objectives. It should also provide details on how the project will be implemented.

Expected Outcomes and Impact

The expected outcomes and impact should clearly state what the project hopes to achieve and how it will contribute to the broader goals of the organization or community.

Monitoring and Evaluation

The monitoring and evaluation plan should outline how the project will be monitored and evaluated to determine its success.

Budget and Resources

The budget and resources section should provide a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with the project, as well as the resources required to implement it.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Concept Note

Now that we have covered the key components of a concept note, it is time to take you through a step-by-step guide to writing a winning concept note.

Step 1: Research and Preparation

Before you start writing your concept note, it is important to conduct thorough research on the problem you are seeking to address, the target audience, and the available resources. This will help you to develop a comprehensive understanding of the project and its requirements.

Step 2: Develop a Clear Project Objective

The project objective is the backbone of your concept note. It should be clear, concise, and specific. A well-defined objective will help you to stay focused on the project and ensure that the project is designed to achieve the intended outcomes.

Step 3: Provide a Strong Background and Context

The background and context section of your concept note should provide a clear understanding of the problem the project intends to address and its relevance to the target audience and the broader community. This section should demonstrate the importance of the project and why it is needed.

Step 4: Identify Your Target Audience and Beneficiaries

The target audience and beneficiaries section of your concept note should clearly identify who the project is meant to benefit. This section should also provide details on how the project will improve the lives of the intended beneficiaries.

Step 5: Outline Your Project Activities and Methodology

The project activities and methodology section of your concept note should provide a detailed explanation of how the project will achieve its objectives. This section should outline the specific steps that will be taken to implement the project and achieve the desired outcomes.

Step 6: Describe Expected Outcomes and Impact

The expected outcomes and impact section of your concept note should detail the expected results of the project and how they will contribute to the broader goals of the organization or community. This section should also provide a clear understanding of the impact the project is expected to have on the beneficiaries.

Step 7: Develop a Monitoring and Evaluation Plan

The monitoring and evaluation plan should outline how the project will be monitored and evaluated to determine its success. This section should also include the indicators that will be used to measure the project's impact.

Step 8: Prepare a Budget and Identify Resources

The budget and resources section of your concept note should provide a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with the project, as well as the resources required to implement it. This section should also include details on how the project will be funded.

By following these steps, you will be able to develop a comprehensive and winning concept note that will help you to secure funding for your project. Remember to keep your concept note clear, concise and focused on the project objectives. Good luck!

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Concept Note

Use the following prompt in an AI chatbot . Below each prompt, be sure to provide additional details about your situation. These could be scratch notes, what you'd like to say or anything else that guides the AI model to write a certain way.

Please prepare a comprehensive and detailed document outlining the key ideas, objectives, and strategies for a proposed project or initiative. This document should clearly articulate the purpose of the project, the target audience, the expected outcomes, and the resources required to implement it. The concept note should be well-structured, concise, and informative, providing a clear roadmap for the proposed project and demonstrating its potential impact and value.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]

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Concept Papers in Research: Deciphering the blueprint of brilliance

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Concept papers hold significant importance as a precursor to a full-fledged research proposal in academia and research. Understanding the nuances and significance of a concept paper is essential for any researcher aiming to lay a strong foundation for their investigation.

Table of Contents

What Is Concept Paper

A concept paper can be defined as a concise document which outlines the fundamental aspects of a grant proposal. It outlines the initial ideas, objectives, and theoretical framework of a proposed research project. It is usually two to three-page long overview of the proposal. However, they differ from both research proposal and original research paper in lacking a detailed plan and methodology for a specific study as in research proposal provides and exclusion of the findings and analysis of a completed research project as in an original research paper. A concept paper primarily focuses on introducing the basic idea, intended research question, and the framework that will guide the research.

Purpose of a Concept Paper

A concept paper serves as an initial document, commonly required by private organizations before a formal proposal submission. It offers a preliminary overview of a project or research’s purpose, method, and implementation. It acts as a roadmap, providing clarity and coherence in research direction. Additionally, it also acts as a tool for receiving informal input. The paper is used for internal decision-making, seeking approval from the board, and securing commitment from partners. It promotes cohesive communication and serves as a professional and respectful tool in collaboration.

These papers aid in focusing on the core objectives, theoretical underpinnings, and potential methodology of the research, enabling researchers to gain initial feedback and refine their ideas before delving into detailed research.

Key Elements of a Concept Paper

Key elements of a concept paper include the title page , background , literature review , problem statement , methodology, timeline, and references. It’s crucial for researchers seeking grants as it helps evaluators assess the relevance and feasibility of the proposed research.

Writing an effective concept paper in academic research involves understanding and incorporating essential elements:

Elements of Concept Papers

How to Write a Concept Paper?

To ensure an effective concept paper, it’s recommended to select a compelling research topic, pose numerous research questions and incorporate data and numbers to support the project’s rationale. The document must be concise (around five pages) after tailoring the content and following the formatting requirements. Additionally, infographics and scientific illustrations can enhance the document’s impact and engagement with the audience. The steps to write a concept paper are as follows:

1. Write a Crisp Title:

Choose a clear, descriptive title that encapsulates the main idea. The title should express the paper’s content. It should serve as a preview for the reader.

2. Provide a Background Information:

Give a background information about the issue or topic. Define the key terminologies or concepts. Review existing literature to identify the gaps your concept paper aims to fill.

3. Outline Contents in the Introduction:

Introduce the concept paper with a brief overview of the problem or idea you’re addressing. Explain its significance. Identify the specific knowledge gaps your research aims to address and mention any contradictory theories related to your research question.

4. Define a Mission Statement:

The mission statement follows a clear problem statement that defines the problem or concept that need to be addressed. Write a concise mission statement that engages your research purpose and explains why gaining the reader’s approval will benefit your field.

5. Explain the Research Aim and Objectives:

Explain why your research is important and the specific questions you aim to answer through your research. State the specific goals and objectives your concept intends to achieve. Provide a detailed explanation of your concept. What is it, how does it work, and what makes it unique?

6. Detail the Methodology:

Discuss the research methods you plan to use, such as surveys, experiments, case studies, interviews, and observations. Mention any ethical concerns related to your research.

7. Outline Proposed Methods and Potential Impact:

Provide detailed information on how you will conduct your research, including any specialized equipment or collaborations. Discuss the expected results or impacts of implementing the concept. Highlight the potential benefits, whether social, economic, or otherwise.

8. Mention the Feasibility

Discuss the resources necessary for the concept’s execution. Mention the expected duration of the research and specific milestones. Outline a proposed timeline for implementing the concept.

9. Include a Support Section:

Include a section that breaks down the project’s budget, explaining the overall cost and individual expenses to demonstrate how the allocated funds will be used.

10. Provide a Conclusion:

Summarize the key points and restate the importance of the concept. If necessary, include a call to action or next steps.

Although the structure and elements of a concept paper may vary depending on the specific requirements, you can tailor your document based on the guidelines or instructions you’ve been given.

Here are some tips to write a concept paper:

Tips to Write Concept Paper

Example of a Concept Paper

Here is an example of a concept paper. Please note, this is a generalized example. Your concept paper should align with the specific requirements, guidelines, and objectives you aim to achieve in your proposal. Tailor it accordingly to the needs and context of the initiative you are proposing.

 Download Now!

Importance of a Concept Paper

Concept papers serve various fields, influencing the direction and potential of research in science, social sciences, technology, and more. They contribute to the formulation of groundbreaking studies and novel ideas that can impact societal, economic, and academic spheres.

A concept paper serves several crucial purposes in various fields:

Purpose of a Concept Paper

In summary, a well-crafted concept paper is essential in outlining a clear, concise, and structured framework for new ideas or proposals. It helps in assessing the feasibility, viability, and potential impact of the concept before investing significant resources into its implementation.

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Role of AI in Writing Concept Papers

The increasing use of AI, particularly generative models, has facilitated the writing process for concept papers. Responsible use involves leveraging AI to assist in ideation, organization, and language refinement while ensuring that the originality and ethical standards of research are maintained.

AI plays a significant role in aiding the creation and development of concept papers in several ways:

1. Idea Generation and Organization

AI tools can assist in brainstorming initial ideas for concept papers based on key concepts. They can help in organizing information, creating outlines, and structuring the content effectively.

2. Summarizing Research and Data Analysis

AI-powered tools can assist in conducting comprehensive literature reviews, helping writers to gather and synthesize relevant information. AI algorithms can process and analyze vast amounts of data, providing insights and statistics to support the concept presented in the paper.

3. Language and Style Enhancement

AI grammar checker tools can help writers by offering grammar, style, and tone suggestions, ensuring professionalism. It can also facilitate translation, in case a global collaboration.

4. Collaboration and Feedback

AI platforms offer collaborative features that enable multiple authors to work simultaneously on a concept paper, allowing for real-time contributions and edits.

5. Customization and Personalization

AI algorithms can provide personalized recommendations based on the specific requirements or context of the concept paper. They can assist in tailoring the concept paper according to the target audience or specific guidelines.

6. Automation and Efficiency

AI can automate certain tasks, such as citation formatting, bibliography creation, or reference checking, saving time for the writer.

7. Analytics and Prediction

AI models can predict potential outcomes or impacts based on the information provided, helping writers anticipate the possible consequences of the proposed concept.

8. Real-Time Assistance

AI-driven chat-bots can provide real-time support and answers to specific questions related to the concept paper writing process.

AI’s role in writing concept papers significantly streamlines the writing process, enhances the quality of the content, and provides valuable assistance in various stages of development, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the final document.

Concept papers serve as the stepping stone in the research journey, aiding in the crystallization of ideas and the formulation of robust research proposals. It the cornerstone for translating ideas into impactful realities. Their significance spans diverse domains, from academia to business, enabling stakeholders to evaluate, invest, and realize the potential of groundbreaking concepts.

Frequently Asked Questions

A concept paper can be defined as a concise document outlining the fundamental aspects of a grant proposal such as the initial ideas, objectives, and theoretical framework of a proposed research project.

A good concept paper should offer a clear and comprehensive overview of the proposed research. It should demonstrate a strong understanding of the subject matter and outline a structured plan for its execution.

Concept paper is important to develop and clarify ideas, develop and evaluate proposal, inviting collaboration and collecting feedback, presenting proposals for academic and research initiatives and allocating resources.

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What is a Concept Paper and How do You Write One?

DiscoverPhDs

  • By DiscoverPhDs
  • August 26, 2020

Concept Paper

What is a Concept Paper?

A concept paper is a short document written by a researcher before starting their research project, with the purpose of explaining what the study is about, why it is important and the methods that will be used.

The concept paper will include your proposed research title, a brief introduction to the subject, the aim of the study, the research questions you intend to answer, the type of data you will collect and how you will collect it. A concept paper can also be referred to as a research proposal.

What is the Purpose of a Concept Paper?

The primary aim of a research concept paper is to convince the reader that the proposed research project is worth doing. This means that the reader should first agree that the research study is novel and interesting. They should be convinced that there is a need for this research and that the research aims and questions are appropriate.

Finally, they should be satisfied that the methods for data collection proposed are feasible, are likely to work and can be performed within the specific time period allocated for this project.

The three main scenarios in which you may need to write a concept paper are if you are:

  • A final year undergraduate or master’s student preparing to start a research project with a supervisor.
  • A student submitting a research proposal to pursue a PhD project under the supervision of a professor.
  • A principal investigator submitting a proposal to a funding body to secure financial support for a research project.

How Long is a Concept Paper?

The concept paper format is usually between 2 and 3 pages in length for students writing proposals for undergraduate, master’s or PhD projects. Concept papers written as part of funding applications may be over 20 pages in length.

How do you Write a Concept Paper?

There are 6 important aspects to consider when writing a concept paper or research proposal:

  • 1. The wording of the title page, which is best presented as a question for this type of document. At this study concept stage, you can write the title a bit catchier, for example “Are 3D Printed Engine Parts Safe for Use in Aircraft?”.
  • A brief introduction and review of relevant existing literature published within the subject area and identification of where the gaps in knowledge are. This last bit is particularly important as it guides you in defining the statement of the problem. The concept paper should provide a succinct summary of ‘the problem’, which is usually related to what is unknown or poorly understood about your research topic . By the end of the concept paper, the reader should be clear on how your research idea will provide a ‘solution’ to this problem.
  • The overarching research aim of your proposed study and the objectives and/or questions you will address to achieve this aim. Align all of these with the problem statement; i.e. write each research question as a clear response to addressing the limitations and gaps identified from previous literature. Also give a clear description of your primary hypothesis.
  • The specific data outputs that you plan to capture. For example, will this be qualitative or quantitative data? Do you plan to capture data at specific time points or at other defined intervals? Do you need to repeat data capture to asses any repeatability and reproducibility questions?
  • The research methodology you will use to capture this data, including any specific measurement or analysis equipment and software you will use, and a consideration of statistical tests to help interpret the data. If your research requires the use of questionnaires, how will these be prepared and validated? In what sort of time frame would you plan to collect this data?
  • Finally, include a statement of the significance of the study , explaining why your research is important and impactful. This can be in the form of a concluding paragraph that reiterate the statement of the problem, clarifies how your research will address this and explains who will benefit from your research and how.

You may need to include a short summary of the timeline for completing the research project. Defining milestones of the time points at which you intend to complete certain tasks can help to show that you’ve considered the practicalities of running this study. It also shows that what you have proposed is feasible in order to achieve your research goal.

If you’re pitching your proposed project to a funder, they may allocate a proportion of the money based on the satisfactory outcome of each milestone. These stakeholders may also be motivated by knowing that you intend to convert your dissertation into an article for journal publication; this level of dissemination is of high importance to them.

Additionally, you may be asked to provide a brief summary of the projected costs of running the study. For a PhD project this could be the bench fees associated with consumables and the cost of any travel if required.

Make sure to include references and cite all other literature and previous research that you discuss in your concept paper.

This guide gave you an overview of the key elements you need to know about when writing concept papers. The purpose of these are first to convey to the reader what your project’s purpose is and why your research topic is important; this is based on the development of a problem statement using evidence from your literature review.

Explain how it may positively impact your research field and if your proposed research design is appropriate and your planned research method achievable.

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example of concept note in research

What is a concept note and how to write one for funding

example of concept note in research

Every year, countless visionary projects struggle to take flight due to a lack of financial support. In the evolving landscape of social impact and community-driven initiatives, securing funding can be a transformative game-changer. A well-crafted concept note serves as a potent tool to unlock the resources needed to turn your ideas into reality. Whether you represent a non-profit organization, a social enterprise, or an individual with a passion for change, mastering the art of writing a compelling concept note is crucial.

This comprehensive guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to craft an engaging and persuasive concept note. We will explore the purpose and significance of concept notes, delving into their essential elements and  practical tips to help you write a winning concept note.  By the end of this blog post, you'll be ready to seize funding opportunities, drive positive change, and make a lasting impact on the world.

Defining a Concept Note

At its core, a concept note is a brief, yet powerful, document that serves as a preview of your proposed project or initiative. Think of it as a captivating trailer for an inspiring movie.  It acts as a prelude to the full project proposal, offering potential funders a glimpse into the project's key objectives, activities, expected outcomes, and budget estimates. The main objective of a concept note is to capture the attention of  potential funders, enticing them to invite you to submit a comprehensive project proposal. Imagine the concept note as your project's golden ticket, granting you access to a world of funding opportunities.

Purpose and Advantages of Concept Notes

Concept notes serve as an essential screening mechanism for both funders and applicants. For funders, they act as gateways to efficiently evaluate numerous project ideas, identifying those that align with their funding priorities. By crafting a compelling concept note, you demonstrate your project's potential, making it more likely to get the green light for further consideration.

As an applicant, a well-crafted concept note offers you the opportunity to generate initial interest, receive valuable feedback, and refine your project proposal before dedicating extensive resources. Consider it as your project's first impression - a chance to dazzle funders with the brilliance of your idea.

Crafting an Impactful Concept Note

example of concept note in research

1. Project Title and Executive Summary

Crafting an attention-grabbing project title is akin to creating the perfect movie title - it should be both intriguing and reflective of your project's essence. For instance, a project aimed at empowering underprivileged youth might use a title like "Rising Stars: Illuminating Futures Through Education."

Complementing the title, the executive summary serves as an elevator pitch that succinctly presents your project's core objectives, target beneficiaries, and potential impact. Imagine this summary as the opening scene of your concept note - captivating funders from the very beginning.

2. Identifying the Problem and Solution

Begin by articulating the problem or societal challenge your project aims to address. Use data, statistics, or relevant case studies to substantiate the issue's significance. For instance, if your project aims to tackle food insecurity, highlight the rising number of families facing hunger in your target community.

Next, present a compelling solution that sets your project apart from others. Use storytelling techniques to narrate how your project will be the hero that saves the day. Showcase how your innovative solution is well-aligned with the needs of the community you aim to serve, leaving no doubt that your project is the key to overcoming the challenges at hand.

3. Target Beneficiaries and Impact Assessment

Clearly identify the primary beneficiaries of your project and offer an insightful understanding of their needs, aspirations, and struggles. Introduce the heroes of your story - the individuals or communities whose lives will be positively impacted by your project.

Present a robust impact assessment plan, outlining specific indicators you will use to measure success. For example, if your project aims to improve healthcare access, highlight how you will measure reduced mortality rates or increased life expectancy in the target community. Data-driven storytelling adds credibility to your concept note, making it a compelling read for potential funders.

4. Project Methodology and Activities

In this section, bring your concept note to life by elaborating on the methodology you will employ to achieve your project's objectives. Use vivid language to describe the key activities, timelines, and expected outputs. Imagine this section as the heart of your project, showcasing how each activity contributes to your initiative's overall success.

Demonstrate the feasibility and practicality of your project by explaining how you will manage potential challenges. For instance, if your project involves training programs, outline how you will ensure qualified trainers, assess learning outcomes, and continuously improve the program based on participant feedback.

5. Sustainability and Scalability

Funders are interested in projects that create a lasting impact beyond the funding period. Address the sustainability of your project by outlining how you plan to secure long-term resources. Consider exploring avenues such as partnerships, community engagement, or income-generating activities to ensure the continuity of your project.

Furthermore, discuss the potential for scalability, illustrating how successful outcomes can be expanded to benefit larger populations or replicated in other communities. Imagine this section as the promise of an enduring legacy - one that will continue to create ripples of positive change long after the initial funding ends.

6. Budget and Financial Plan

In this final piece of the puzzle, present a well-structured and transparent budget that accurately reflects the financial needs of your project. Think of the budget as the roadmap for your project's financial journey. Offer a detailed breakdown of estimated costs for each activity, ensuring that your budget aligns with your project's goals and expected outcomes. Justify your funding request, assuring funders that their investment will be used efficiently and responsibly.

Tips for Writing a Winning Concept Note

example of concept note in research

1. Know Your Audience

Before embarking on your concept note, conduct thorough research on the funding organization or donor. Tailor your document to align with their specific funding priorities and requirements. Consider this step as the process of understanding the preferences and expectations of your audience - ensuring that your concept note resonates with their interests.

2. Be Clear and Concise

Remember, concept notes are typically brief, ranging from one to three pages. Craft your narrative with clarity, avoiding jargon or technical language that may hinder comprehension. Present the most critical aspects of your project with eloquence and impact, creating a compelling story that is easy to follow.

3. Demonstrate Expertise and Capacity

Build trust with funders by providing evidence of your organization's expertise and track record in implementing similar initiatives. Clearly articulate your team's capacity to execute the project successfully and manage potential challenges. Use past successes and testimonials from beneficiaries to illustrate your competence in making a difference.

4. Tell a Compelling Story

Infuse your concept note with compelling storytelling techniques, bringing your project's vision and passion to life. Engage funders emotionally while maintaining a logical and data-driven approach to your proposal. Imagine this tip as the art of weaving an unforgettable narrative that leaves funders eager to know more about your project.

5. Seek Feedback and Review

Before finalizing your concept note, seek feedback from peers, mentors, or experts in the field. Incorporate their suggestions to enhance the clarity and persuasiveness of your proposal. Treat this step as a collaborative process of refining your masterpiece, ensuring that every word and element is finely tuned for success.

Writing a compelling concept note is a powerful skill that can open doors to funding opportunities and turn your ambitious ideas into tangible projects. By understanding the purpose and elements of a concept note and implementing effective writing strategies, you can confidently pursue funding opportunities, secure resources, and make a tangible impact on the world.

Remember, each concept note is a unique opportunity to showcase your vision, creativity, and dedication to creating meaningful change. So take the leap, draft your concept note, and embark on your journey to transforming the world, one impactful project at a time. Armed with this step-by-step guide, you hold the key to unlocking funding support and turning your vision into a remarkable reality. Take a look at What Funders Look for in A Winning Concept Note to learn more about how to write your concept note.

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How To Write a Concept Paper for Academic Research: An Ultimate Guide

How To Write a Concept Paper for Academic Research: An Ultimate Guide

A concept paper is one of the first steps in helping you fully realize your research project. Because of this, some schools opt to teach students how to write concept papers as early as high school. In college, professors sometimes require their students to submit concept papers before suggesting their research projects to serve as the foundations for their theses.

If you’re reading this right now, you’ve probably been assigned by your teacher or professor to write a concept paper. To help you get started, we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide on how to write a proper concept paper.

Related: How to Write Significance of the Study (with Examples)

Table of Contents

What is the concept paper, 1. academic research concept papers, 2. advertising concept papers, 3. research grant concept papers, concept paper vs. research proposal, tips for finding your research topic, 2. think of research questions that you want to answer in your project, 3. formulate your research hypothesis, 4. plan out how you will achieve, analyze, and present your data, 2. introduction, 3. purpose of the study, 4. preliminary literature review, 5. objectives of the study, 6. research questions and hypotheses, 7. proposed methodology, 8. proposed research timeline, 9. references, sample concept paper for research proposal (pdf), tips for writing your concept paper.

Generally, a concept paper is a summary of everything related to your proposed project or topic. A concept paper indicates what the project is all about, why it’s important, and how and when you plan to conduct your project.

Different Types of the Concept Paper and Their Uses

writing a concept paper

This type of concept paper is the most common type and the one most people are familiar with. Concept papers for academic research are used by students to provide an outline for their prospective research topics.

These concept papers are used to help students flesh out all the information and ideas related to their topic so that they may arrive at a more specific research hypothesis.

Since this is the most common type of concept paper, it will be the main focus of this article.

Advertising concept papers are usually written by the creative and concept teams in advertising and marketing agencies.

Through a concept paper, the foundation or theme for an advertising campaign or strategy is formed. The concept paper can also serve as a bulletin board for ideas that the creative and concept teams can add to or develop. 

This type of concept paper usually discusses who the target audience of the campaign is, what approach of the campaign will be, how the campaign will be implemented, and the projected benefits and impact of the campaign to the company’s sales, consumer base, and other aspects of the company.

This type of concept paper is most common in the academe and business world. Alongside proving why your research project should be conducted, a research grant concept paper must also appeal to the company or funding agency on why they should be granted funds.

The paper should indicate a proposed timeline and budget for the entire project. It should also be able to persuade the company or funding agency on the benefits of your research project– whether it be an increase in sales or productivity or for the benefit of the general public.

It’s important to discuss the differences between the two because a lot of people often use these terms interchangeably.

A concept paper is one of the first steps in conducting a research project. It is during this process that ideas and relevant information to the research topic are gathered to produce the research hypothesis. Thus, a concept paper should always precede the research proposal. 

A research proposal is a more in-depth outline of a more fleshed-out research project. This is the final step before a researcher can conduct their research project. Although both have similar elements and structures, a research proposal is more specific when it comes to how the entire research project will be conducted.

Getting Started on Your Concept Paper

1. find a research topic you are interested in.

When choosing a research topic, make sure that it is something you are passionate about or want to learn more about. If you are writing one for school, make sure it is still relevant to the subject of your class. Choosing a topic you aren’t invested in may cause you to lose interest in your project later on, which may lower the quality of the research you’ll produce.

A research project may last for months and even years, so it’s important that you will never lose interest in your topic.

  • Look for inspiration everywhere. Take a walk outside, read books, or go on your computer. Look around you and try to brainstorm ideas about everything you see. Try to remember any questions you might have asked yourself before like why something is the way it is or why can’t this be done instead of that . 
  • Think big. If you’re having trouble thinking up a specific topic to base your research project on, choosing a broad topic and then working your way down should help.
  • Is it achievable? A lot of students make the mistake of choosing a topic that is hard to achieve in terms of materials, data, and/or funding available. Before you decide on a research topic, make sure you consider these aspects. Doing so will save you time, money, and effort later on.
  • Be as specific as can be. Another common mistake that students make is that they sometimes choose a research topic that is too broad. This results in extra effort and wasted time while conducting their research project. For example: Instead of “The Effects of Bananas on Hungry Monkeys” , you could specify it to “The Effects of Cavendish Bananas on Potassium-deficiency in Hungry Philippine Long-tailed Macaques in Palawan, Philippines”.

Now that you have a general idea of the topic of your research project, you now need to formulate research questions based on your project. These questions will serve as the basis for what your project aims to answer. Like your research topic, make sure these are specific and answerable.

Following the earlier example, possible research questions could be:

  • Do Cavendish bananas produce more visible effects on K-deficiency than other bananas?
  • How susceptible are Philippine long-tailed macaques to K-deficiency?
  • What are the effects of K-deficiency in Philippine long-tailed macaques?

After formulating the research questions, you should also provide your hypothesis for each question. A research hypothesis is a tentative answer to the research problem. You must provide educated answers to the questions based on your existing knowledge of the topic before you conduct your research project.

After conducting research and collecting all of the data into the final research paper, you will then have to approve or disprove these hypotheses based on the outcome of the project.

Prepare a plan on how to acquire the data you will need for your research project. Take note of the different types of analysis you will need to perform on your data to get the desired results. Determine the nature of the relationship between different variables in your research.

Also, make sure that you are able to present your data in a clear and readable manner for those who will read your concept paper. You can achieve this by using tables, charts, graphs, and other visual aids.

Related: How to Make Conceptual Framework (with Examples and Templates)

Generalized Structure of a Concept Paper

Since concept papers are just summaries of your research project, they are usually short and  no longer than 5 pages. However, for big research projects, concept papers can reach up to more than 20 pages.

Your teacher or professor may give you a certain format for your concept papers. Generally, most concept papers are double-spaced and are less than 500 words in length. 

Even though there are different types of concept papers, we’ve provided you with a generalized structure that contains elements that can be found in any type of concept paper.

parts of a concept paper

The title for your paper must be able to effectively summarize what your research is all about. Use simple words so that people who read the title of your research will know what it’s all about even without reading the entire paper. 

The introduction should give the reader a brief background of the research topic and state the main objective that your project aims to achieve. This section should also include a short overview of the benefits of the research project to persuade the reader to acknowledge the need for the project.

The Purpose of the Study should be written in a way that convinces the reader of the need to address the existing problem or gap in knowledge that the research project aims to resolve. In this section, you have to go into more detail about the benefits and value of your project for the target audience/s. 

This section features related studies and papers that will support your research topic. Use this section to analyze the results and methodologies of previous studies and address any gaps in knowledge or questions that your research project aims to answer. You may also use the data to assert the importance of conducting your research.

When choosing which papers and studies you should include in the Preliminary Literature Review, make sure to choose relevant and reliable sources. Reliable sources include academic journals, credible news outlets, government websites, and others. Also, take note of the authors for the papers as you will need to cite them in the References section.

Simply state the main objectives that your research is trying to achieve. The objectives should be able to indicate the direction of the study for both the reader and the researcher. As with other elements in the paper, the objectives should be specific and clearly defined.

Gather the research questions and equivalent research hypotheses you formulated in the earlier step and list them down in this section.

In this section, you should be able to guide the reader through the process of how you will conduct the research project. Make sure to state the purpose for each step of the process, as well as the type of data to be collected and the target population.

Depending on the nature of your research project, the length of the entire process can vary significantly. What’s important is that you are able to provide a reasonable and achievable timeline for your project.

Make sure the time you will allot for each component of your research won’t be too excessive or too insufficient so that the quality of your research won’t suffer.

Ensure that you will give credit to all the authors of the sources you used in your paper. Depending on your area of study or the instructions of your professor, you may need to use a certain style of citation.

There are three main citation styles: the American Psychological Association (APA), Modern Language Association (MLA), and the Chicago style.

The APA style is mostly used for papers related to education, psychology, and the sciences. The APA citation style usually follows this format:

how to write concept papers 1

The MLA citation style is the format used by papers and manuscripts in disciplines related to the arts and humanities. The MLA citation style follows this format:

how to write concept papers 2

The Chicago citation style is usually used for papers related to business, history, and the fine arts. It follows this citation format:

how to write concept papers 3

This is a concept paper sample provided by Dr. Bernard Lango from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (modified for use in this article). Simply click the link above the download the PDF file.

  • Use simple, concise language. Minimize the use of flowery language and always try to use simple and easy-to-understand language. Too many technical or difficult words in your paper may alienate your readers and make your paper hard to read. 
  • Choose your sources wisely. When scouring the Internet for sources to use, you should always be wary and double-check the authenticity of your source. Doing this will increase the authenticity of your research project’s claims and ensure better data gathered during the process.
  • Follow the specified format, if any. Make sure to follow any specified format when writing your concept paper. This is very important, especially if you’re writing your concept paper for class. Failure to follow the format will usually result in point deductions and delays because of multiple revisions needed.
  • Proofread often. Make it a point to reread different sections of your concept paper after you write them. Another way you can do this is by taking a break for a few days and then coming back to proofread your writing. You may notice certain areas you’d like to revise or mistakes you’d like to fix. Make proofreading a habit to increase the quality of your paper.

Written by Ruth Raganit

in Career and Education , Juander How

example of concept note in research

Ruth Raganit

Ruth Raganit obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from the University of the Philippines – Diliman. Her love affair with Earth sciences began when she saw a pretty rock and wondered how it came to be. She also likes playing video games, doing digital art, and reading manga.

Browse all articles written by Ruth Raganit

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Concept Note

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concept-note-bundle

1. Introduction

  • Background Information
  • Purpose of the Concept Note

2. Objectives

  • Specific Goals
  • Expected Outcomes

3. Justification

  • Need for the Project/Idea
  • Benefits and Impact

4. Methodology

  • Approach and Strategies
  • Key Activities

5. Budget Estimate

  • Rough Cost Estimates
  • Funding Sources

6. Timeline

  • Project Phases

7. Conclusion

  • Summary of Key Points
  • Call to Action

Concept Note Template

Concept Note Template

Concept Note Sample PDF

Concept Note Sample PDF

Concept Note for Project

Concept Note for Project

Concept Note Sample for Research

Concept Note Sample for Research

Concept Note Budget Template

Concept Note Budget Template

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Training Concept Note Template

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Event Concept Note Template

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Business Concept Note Template

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Research Concept Note Template

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Project Concept Note Template

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Free Simple Concept Note Template

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Free One Page Concept Note Template

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Concept Note Form

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Bulding Programme Concept Note

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Sample Activity Concept Note

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Concept Note for Joint Activities

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Side Event Concept Note

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Concept Note Questions Template

Printable Concept Note Template

Printable Concept Note Template

Official Statistics Concept Note

Official Statistics Concept Note

1. academic concept note, 2. event concept note, 3. organization concept note, 4. journalism concept note, 5. film concept note, 1. large market share, 2. proper categorization and arrangement of concepts, 3. brand acknowledgement, 4. effective price development , 5. create and develop change, step 1: research the topic, step 2: identify project goals and objectives, step 3:  develop a plan for project design, step 4:   maintain brevity , step 5: prepare the note for submission, what is the difference between a concept note and a project proposals .

  • Introduction : Provide a brief overview of the project, highlighting its importance and relevance.
  • Purpose : Clearly state the objectives and goals of the project.
  • Description : Offer a detailed description of the project, including the methodology and approach.
  • Support Needed : Specify the resources, funding, or support required for the project.
  • Conclusion : Summarize the key points and emphasize the project’s potential impact.
  • Title : Create a clear and descriptive title that encapsulates the main idea.
  • Introduction : Provide a brief introduction, explaining the project’s background and significance.
  • Objectives : Outline the primary objectives and goals of the project.
  • Methodology : Describe the methods and procedures that will be used to achieve the objectives.
  • Budget and Support : Detail the required budget and any other support needed, ensuring it aligns with the Job Handover Note .

what-does-a-concept-note-includes

  • Title and Introduction : A clear title and an introductory section that sets the context.
  • Objectives : Specific objectives that the project aims to achieve.
  • Methodology : Detailed methodology outlining how the objectives will be met.
  • Budget : An estimated budget for the project, aligning with the Doctor’s Note .
  • Conclusion : A concise conclusion summarizing the key points and potential impact.
  • Title and Introduction : Captivating title and a strong introduction.
  • Objectives : Clearly defined objectives.
  • Methodology : Detailed methodology and approach.
  • Budget : A realistic budget estimate.
  • Conclusion : A strong conclusion that reinforces the project’s significance, akin to SOAP Note .

how-do-you-write-an-objective-for-a-concept-note

  • Clear Statement : Begin with a clear, concise statement of the objective.
  • Relevance : Ensure the objective is relevant to the project’s goals.
  • Measurable : Make the objective measurable to track progress.
  • Achievable : Set achievable objectives that are realistic given the resources.
  • Time-bound : Include a timeframe for achieving the objective, similar to Delivery Note .

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A job handover note is essential for ensuring a smooth transition when you leave a position. This complete guide provides all the information you need to create effective handover…

42+ SAMPLE Research Note in PDF | MS Word

sample research note

Research is defined as the process of systematically investigating and studying presented materials for the purpose of establishing facts and reaching new outcomes or conclusions. Research can also be…

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GUIDELINE FOR WRITING RESEARCH CONCEPT NOTE

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mzumbe university research concept note

Related Papers

isaac Afful

example of concept note in research

H Johnson Nenty

Research is an exciting adventure which if properly carried out adds richly to the student’s experience, to the school academic prestige and to the society through the new knowledge it creates which could be applied in solving related problems and in other services. Young researchers always encounter problems designing and carrying out their first study which usually is their project, thesis or dissertation. Some who are not properly guided or supervised get frustrated and drop out of their programmes because of these problems. The ideas in this paper which metamorphosed over 25 years of teaching and supervising research, represents an attempt to contribute to the solution of such problems especially for graduate students. It presents elaborately, in very simple language and in five sections, the practical steps that should guide beginning researchers on how to carry out their study and report it.

abasynuniv.edu.pk

Flora Maleki

Farhan Ahmad

Kgosi Leatile Kgautlhe

JOHN KARANJA, PhD , Dr. John Karanja

research proposal is a comprehensive plan for a research project. It is a written description of a research plan that has to be undertaken. It determines the specific areas of research, states the purpose, scope, methodology, overall organization and limitations of the study. It also estimates its requirements for equipment (if necessary), finance and possible personnel.

Aksha Memon

A research proposal is a pre-written document which gives an overview of the research tactics. It gives a general idea of the objectives to be achieved and the ways and means to achieve it. Writing research proposal is however a challenging feat. Due to lack of clear guidance from any source, there are many substandard research proposals which are placed before evaluation committee. The researcher came across various people who had no clear understanding of the process and structure of research proposal or research design. This problem has led the researcher to develop a framework to guide the prospective researchers in framing their research design based on the following research questions.1) what is the procedure of writing the research proposal 2) what are the components of the research proposal.So, to give a clear picture about the problem the paper is divided into two parts I) Procedure of writing the research proposal II) Components of the research proposal. The procedure for writing the research proposal is discussed with regards to: 1) Identifying the problem 2) Deciding on the topic 3) Deciding the locale of study 4) Deciding on the data needs 5) Planning the source of data collection 6) Plotting down ways to collect data 7) Identifying methods for analyzing data collection 8) Establishing a basis for designing the Proposal. While the components of research proposal are discussed with regards to : 1) Cover page 2) Abstract 3) Keywords 4) Introduction 5) Review of literature 6) Statement of problem 7) Objectives of the study 8) Hypothesis of the study 9) Period of study 10) Methodology 11) Data analysis 12) Limitation of the study 13) Chapter framework 14) References 15) Appendices.

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Nadia Mayahi

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Examples

Concept Note

Note generator.

example of concept note in research

Concept notes, as its name suggests, is a brief summary that discusses the ideas regarding a project proposal  and the objectives that it is aiming to achieve. It is the product of the attempt to briefly discuss, to a client or a prospective sponsor, the highlights of the project being developed. Concept notes are often requested before the presentation of a full-fledged proposal to be able to study the contents of the project and determine whether or not it is in line with the priorities of the company and the brand message they are trying to impress.

If the project doesn’t meet the standards of the team, a presentation of the whole proposal will no longer be necessary since the main points were already discussed through the concept notes, which means that the whole organization has saved a lot of time that would have been wasted in listening to lengthy ramblings about a proposal that won’t even be accepted.

What is Concept Notes?

Concept notes are concise documents outlining the essence of a proposed project. They highlight its objectives, methodologies, expected outcomes, and potential impact, providing an overview to stakeholders or funders for consideration or funding.

What is an Example of Concept Notes?

Title: Empowering Youth Through Digital Skills Training

Introduction: The concept aims to empower underprivileged youth by providing comprehensive digital skills training.

Problem Statement: Identified a lack of access to digital education among disadvantaged youth, hindering their employability in the digital economy.

Objectives:

  • Equip 100 youth with basic to advanced digital skills within a 6-month program.
  • Foster entrepreneurship by offering modules on digital marketing and e-commerce.
  • Facilitate internships or job placements for 80% of trained participants.

Project Description: The program entails interactive workshops, online modules, and mentorship sessions delivered by industry experts. It covers web development, graphic design, and data analytics.

Expected Impact:

  • Enhanced employability of youth in tech-driven industries.
  • Increased digital literacy, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
  • Long-term socioeconomic empowerment of participants and their communities.

Implementation Plan: Phase 1: Recruitment and assessment of participants. Phase 2: Delivery of training modules through a blended learning approach. Phase 3: Internship/job placement assistance and post-training support.

Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular assessments, surveys, and feedback mechanisms to track progress and measure the impact on participants’ skills and employability.

Budget and Sustainability: Budget estimated at $50,000, sourced from grants and corporate partnerships. Sustainability ensured through partnerships with tech companies and alumni contributions.

Concept Note Budget Template

Concept Note Budget Template

  • Google Docs

Size: 168 KB

Concept Note Template

Concept Note Template1

Size: 53 KB

Product Concept Note Template

Product Concept Note Template

Size: 148 KB

Training Concept Note Template

Training Concept Note Template

  • Apple Pages

Size: 199 KB

Simple Concept Note Template

Simple Concept Note Template

Size: 143 KB

Concept Note Sample Format

Concept-Note-Sample

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Concept-Note-Template-

Size: 38 KB

Ecuador Project Concept Notes

Ecuador-Project-Concept-Note

Size: 84 KB

Partnership Concept Note

Partnership-Concept-Note1

Size: 184 KB

Concept notes can also be used to discuss the main project ideas to would-be donors who have no time, patience, or interest in listening to a proficient deliberation of the topic. Instead, they would only demand for the main points to be condensed. This will be their basis for whether or not they will fund the project.

In some cases, concept notes are meticulously structured, providing in-depth information about the topic. However, they can also be designed to only contain a general overview of the project’s main idea. Irregardless of the amount of data that the concept note holds, it is an important stepping stone toward attracting attention and support for your project.

Concept Paper Template

Concept-Paper-Template-

Size: 31 KB

Draft Concept Note

Draft-Concept-Note1

Size: 76 KB

Once you have piqued the curiosity of your audience with your concentrated concept note, you may then be requested to discuss everything in detail through a presentation of your project proposal . Otherwise, it is suffice to say that your project has been rejected.

Ideally, a concept note is only 2 to 3 pages long, except if your audience has provided specific requirements about it. But, irregardless of how long or short it is, your concept note must be well-written because it is an important document that serves as the first delivery of your project, and the response you garner through it will define the future of your project.

As for the format of your concept note, there are no existing rigid rules about it. However, it is best to get to know the organization or the agency that you are applying for so that you can learn if they have any specifications about this detail.

Concept Note on Vocationalization of Education

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Design Concept Note Template

Design-Concept-Note-Template2

Size: 57 KB

Design-Concept-Note-Template3

Size: 72 KB

The Advantages of Writing Concept Notes

Concept notes give you the chance to create a framework for your ideas that you can present on paper. It makes proving a point or arriving at a conclusion easier because you simply have to organize your ideas without the extensive explanation and other complexities that a proposal would necessitate.

Also, since concept notes are only the first presentation of the project and not yet the whole proposal, this gives the team another chance to work on improvements before they present the whole idea to their audience, and their audience will never know since they haven’t seen or read the full presentation yet.

In connection to this, presenting concept notes first will give the donors the chance to assess the proposal and offer suggestions to the team so that they can revise it before presenting the complete proposal. Of course, since concept notes are considerably shorter than proposals, they also take less time and resources to prepare which, after making a full-fledged proposal, is a fresh break for the team.

Concept Note on Food Authority

Concept-Nacote-On-Food-Authority1

Size: 70 KB

APEC Project Concept Note

APEC Project Concept Note

Size: 99 KB

Writing a Concept Note

There are certain elements and parts that a concept note must contain to make sure that you are providing every necessary information through it.

  • Title.  A big part of the audience’s first impression of your work will solely be dependent on the title, and if  that much pressure is reliant on the title, making it will not be easy. Your title should be snappy and aggressive, yet fun and exciting. It should impress upon your audience the right image that you are trying to project about the content of your concept note.
  • Background.  The background you present in your concept notes must answer to crucial questions: “Why is it important that we address the problem identified in the study?” and “What means have already been conducted to try to solve the problem?” These questions, although simple, can already provide a thorough discussion of the relevance of the project being presented.
  • Objectives.  Since you have a problem that you are addressing through your concept paper, you must then be aiming at certain goals or outcomes. State these in your concept paper as well. Your objectives can either be short-termed or long-termed. They need to be as specific as possible. Providing numbers and statistics will make your objectives more convincing, so it will help if you have those to include as well.
  • Outputs.  Oftentimes, projects are proposed to donors because they are aiming for physical and tangible outputs to be constructed for them. It can be in the form of technical facilities or the publication of information materials. Intangible materials may also be mentioned in concept notes, such as raised awareness to a specific problem, and increased responsiveness toward an issue.
  • Activities and Duration.  You should also discuss the activities and tasks you need to conduct to be able to achieve your project objectives. The amount of time you need to invest in doing them should also be specified since this will give your audience an idea on how long the project has to be implemented before results start showing.
  • Beneficiaries.  When talking to prospective donors, this aspect of your concept note should be highlighted. You should do your best in discussing what they will get if they fund your project. After all, you and your project are an investment to them. They are not going to give you money for the sake of charity. The benefits are the fruits of the investment that they will reap.
  • Project Management.  This part will discuss all the necessary steps you need to follow to be able to realize your plan. Your project management plan should be well-structured and realistic so that your audience will be convinced that it is, in fact, realizable. Otherwise, even if you promise benefits and long-term products, you will not get the support and funding you will need if you cannot convince them of your ability to make it all come true.
  • Budget. This part should only be included if your audience requests for it. Otherwise, it would be best to keep your estimated amount to yourself. When presenting your budget in your concept paper, you must include into the equation all the necessary resources that you will need to realize the project. This will include the staff you will have to pay, the equipment, the materials, the facilities, the vehicles, and other things you might need.

Concept Note Project Synopsis

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Concept Note for Training Workshops

Concept-Note-For-Training-Workshops

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Activity Concept Note Example

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Tips in Creating Your Own Concept Note

  • Your goal is to be able to express every important detail about your project in as few words as you can. Remember, you are trying to condense an entire project proposal into just 2 to 3 pages. Do not overwhelm your audience with too much blabbering they don’t need to hear, but avoid sounding vague either. To be sure, create bullet points of the necessary details about your project and expound on them through your concept note.
  • It is important that you consider your audience before and while you are making your concept note. Your audience is who you are trying to please, so you should try to make your content as relevant to their likes and current needs. It would help if you get to know your audience before presenting to them. Chances are, your audiences have different preferences. If you must, adjust your concept notes depending on who you will present it to.
  • It is also important for you to consider your language, of course, depending on who you are talking to. If your audience is made up of scientists, use scientific terms and jargon to more effectively establish rapport with them. Your language is your greatest tool to convince these people that your project is worth investing on. Use it well.
  • Refrain from discussing monetary issues on your concept notes. Although everybody knows that your goal is to raise funds for your project, you don’t necessarily have to include it in the discussion. Also, money is not going to help you convince your audience to support you.
  • Take care of the appearance of your paper. Needless to say, it should be presentable, clean, and professional. Since you are not being given the chance to personally talk (unless your concept note earns the approval of your audience), your concept note will represent you. How it looks will mirror you and your team’s names and personalities. Also, since it is a business document, make it look like one. Observe proper margins, and use the right font and spacing. Check for errors and don’t forget to include your name and contact information on the header. Be keen to details.
  • Don’t send concept notes just because you feel like doing so. There is a very slim chance for a randomly submitted concept note to be accepted. Make sure you have targeted organizations because your chances with them are bigger. However, if you don’t, establish connections through the people you already know. Look for people who are willing to listen to what you have to say.

Project Concept Note Template

Project-Concept-Note-Template

Size: 48 KB

Creating a project proposal is already a task in itself. Having to present it to an audience  and gain their approval and support is an even bigger burden. Since you may not be given enough time or even the chance to present to a crowd the contents of your project, summarizing it all in the form of a concept note may help you in this undertaking. Consider the suggestions provided above to help you make the most out of the little time given to you.

A Quick Guide on How to Write Powerful Concept Notes

1. Clear Objective:

  • Define the project’s purpose, goals, and expected outcomes succinctly. Clearly state what the concept aims to achieve.

2. Concise Description:

  • Provide a brief overview of the project, its relevance, and how it addresses a specific need or problem.

3. Target Audience:

  • Identify the target beneficiaries or audience for the project, highlighting their needs and how the project will benefit them.

4. Unique Approach:

  • Describe the project’s innovative or unique aspects, strategies, or methodologies that set it apart.

5. Feasibility and Sustainability:

  • Outline the feasibility of the project, including the resources required, timeline, and sustainability plan beyond the initial implementation phase.

6. Impact Assessment:

  • Explain how the project’s success will be measured, detailing the indicators and methods for assessing its impact.

7. Clarity and Formatting:

  • Ensure clarity, coherence, and proper formatting. Use concise sentences, bullet points, and sections to organize information logically.

8. Compelling Conclusion:

  • Summarize key points, emphasizing the significance of the project and its potential impact.

What are the contents of the Concept Note?

  • Clear project title and a brief introduction outlining the project’s purpose and context.
  • Concise overview highlighting the project’s objectives, target beneficiaries, and anticipated outcomes.
  • Description of the problem or need the project aims to address, including relevant statistics or data.
  • Detailed explanation of the project, its activities, methodologies, and innovative aspects.
  • Identification and description of the beneficiaries or target audience and how they will benefit from the project.
  • Clear articulation of the expected results, outcomes, and the project’s potential impact on the target group or community.
  • Outline of the project’s implementation strategy, including timelines, resources required, and key milestones.
  • Description of the methods, indicators, and tools to monitor progress and evaluate the project’s success.
  • Plans detailing how the project will be sustained beyond the initial implementation phase and its potential for long-term impact.
  • Overview of the budget, funding sources, and financial sustainability of the project.

How to Write a Concept Note for a Project

  • Clearly define the project’s purpose, goals, and intended outcomes.
  • Describe the specific problem or need the project aims to address, supported by relevant data or evidence.
  • Outline the project’s objectives, stating what it intends to achieve and how it aligns with addressing the identified problem.
  • Identify the beneficiaries or target audience and explain how they will benefit from the project.
  • Provide a detailed description of the project, including methodologies, innovative approaches, activities, and strategies to achieve the objectives.
  • Clearly articulate the anticipated results and the expected impact the project will have on the target group or community.
  • Outline the plan for implementing the project, including timelines, key activities, resources required, and key milestones.
  • Describe how the project’s progress and success will be monitored and evaluated using specific indicators and tools.
  • Detail plans for ensuring the project’s sustainability beyond the initial phase and how the project will exit or transition.
  • Provide an overview of the budget, funding sources, and financial sustainability of the project.

FAQ’s

Why is a concept note important.

A concept note is crucial as it succinctly presents a project’s essence, objectives, and potential impact, guiding stakeholders’ decisions and securing support or funding.

Is the Concept Note useful for the applying NGO as well?

Absolutely, a concept note aids NGOs by clarifying project goals, ensuring alignment with their mission, and facilitating better planning and resource allocation for impactful initiatives.

Is there a specific format for writing the Concept Note?

While flexible, concept notes typically follow a structured format with sections like problem statement, objectives, methods, outcomes, budget, and sustainability, ensuring clarity and coherence in presentation.

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IMAGES

  1. Research Concept note for Health Policy and Management track

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  2. Concept Note Template

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  3. FREE 10+ Research Note Templates in PDF

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  4. FREE 20+ Research Paper Outlines in PDF

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  5. Free Concept Note Templates & Samples [Word+PDF]

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  6. How to Write a Concept Note

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VIDEO

  1. How to write a Concept Note (Self and Personality)

  2. 3 DATA HANDLING

  3. Conceptual Review

  4. SHORT NOTE

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COMMENTS

  1. PDF HOW TO WRITE A CONCEPT NOTE

    Defining a Concept Note •A concept note is a brief document that presents brief summary of the proposed research. •It is a pre-proposal document with no more than three pages (preferably two pages). •This documents presents key details about the research, such as: •the rationale •research question •aim and objections •methodology

  2. How to Write a Concept Note: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Now that we have covered the key components of a concept note, it is time to take you through a step-by-step guide to writing a winning concept note. Step 1: Research and Preparation Before you start writing your concept note, it is important to conduct thorough research on the problem you are seeking to address, the target audience, and the ...

  3. How to write a concept paper with practical sample by Dr Lango

    follow these steps: 1. Concept paper title. Every pa per must have a title and concept paper is not left out as one needs to have a title that. summarizes what the paper is about. The title should ...

  4. How to Write a Concept Paper

    Additionally, infographics and scientific illustrations can enhance the document's impact and engagement with the audience. The steps to write a concept paper are as follows: 1. Write a Crisp Title: Choose a clear, descriptive title that encapsulates the main idea. The title should express the paper's content.

  5. PDF BRIEF: HOW TO WRITE A CONCEPT PAPER

    to interest potential funders. to develop potential solutions or investigations into project ideas. to determine whether a project idea is fundable. to serve as the foundation of a full proposal. Funders that request concept papers often provide a template or format. If templates or formats are not provided, the following can serve as a useful ...

  6. PDF Guidelines to preparing a research concept note

    A good concept note does not have to be a lengthy document to address the essential points relevant to a research study. A five-to-ten-page concept note is sufficient in most cases. The concept note is prepared as part of the application to ... For example, quantitative, qualitative or both. The data must align with your research objective(s).

  7. Guidelines to Develop Concept Note for Research Students/ Ph.D

    Structure of the Concept Note/paper As a guide a nd to encourage uniformity in assessment of the concept papers, all applicants should structure their concept papers; taking into account the preceding

  8. What is a Concept Paper and How do You Write One?

    A concept paper is a short document written by a researcher before starting their research project, with the purpose of explaining what the study is about, why it is important and the methods that will be used. The concept paper will include your proposed research title, a brief introduction to the subject, the aim of the study, the research ...

  9. How to write a concept paper effectively

    1. To explore and expand an idea: Researchers can use concept papers to transform an incipient research idea into a focused, high-quality study proposal. The paper is also a means to obtain feedback that can be used to strengthen a detailed proposal at a later stage. 2. To draw the interest of funding agencies: Through an effective concept ...

  10. PDF University of South Africa

    Determine whether your research is aligned with their own interests and experience. Whether there is capacity in the research group to accommodate your study Writing a concept note will assist you in clarifying your ideas, defining your research topic and presenting the material in a logical and coherent manner.

  11. PDF Types of concept paper

    Concept Notes. A concept paper/note is a brief paper written around a research question before undertaking the research. It can be seen as a pre-proposal document that is about two or three pages in length providing key details about the research, such as the question, purpose, and methods. The paper allows your supervisor or funders to gauge ...

  12. PDF APPENDIX I CONCEPT NOTE: FORMAT AND EVALUATION

    The quality of the Concept Note is most vital. In the Concept Note you will submit an analysis of current situation and a chosen strategy, leaving the more detailed project development information for development of the full proposal after you have been selected to submit a full proposal. Your project idea, however, should be well thought ...

  13. PDF Guidelines for Writing Concept Notes, Proposals, Research Reports

    "Concept Note" means an outline of the research proposal of 3 to 5 pages (including references). "Dissertation" means an academic writing that presents the author's research and findings and is submitted in support of partial fulfilment of candidature for a degree or professional qualification. Dissertations shall be

  14. What is a concept note and how to write one for funding

    Defining a Concept Note. At its core, a concept note is a brief, yet powerful, document that serves as a preview of your proposed project or initiative. Think of it as a captivating trailer for an inspiring movie. It acts as a prelude to the full project proposal, offering potential funders a glimpse into the project's key objectives ...

  15. How To Write a Concept Paper for Academic Research: An ...

    Concept Paper vs. Research Proposal. Getting Started on Your Concept Paper. 1. Find a research topic you are interested in. Tips for finding your research topic. 2. Think of research questions that you want to answer in your project. 3. Formulate your research hypothesis.

  16. PDF Concept Note Contents and Instructions

    This concept note template is used ONLY for the HU Grand Challenge Research Grant pre-application. 1. Researchers profile - completed via research grant management system 2. Five-page concept note - uploaded as a Microsoft Word file type 1. Title The title of the Research Proposal must reflect clearly and succinctly the area of the research ...

  17. PDF concept note outline

    GUIDELINE FOR RESEARCH CONCEPT NOTE. The following elements shall apply when writing your Research Concept Note. Title of Proposed Study. Introduction. Statement of the Problem. General and Specific Objectives of the Study. Research Questions or Hypotheses. A brief Literature Review. Conceptual Framework (Where applicable)

  18. Concept Note Template: How to write (with Samples)

    In order to write a concept note, the following steps would be useful: Start the concept note with a title. The header section would include information like submitted by along with the date of submission. It is important to keep in mind that the title should be short; however, it would be such that it reflects information about the project.

  19. FREE 49+ Concept Note Samples, PDF, MS Word

    Writing a Concept Note involves clearly and concisely outlining the main idea and objectives of a proposed project. Title: Create a clear and descriptive title that encapsulates the main idea. Introduction: Provide a brief introduction, explaining the project's background and significance.

  20. Tool 1. Concept note template

    Tool 1. Concept note template - 28 April 2021. 28 April 2021. | COVID-19: Critical preparedness, readiness and response. Download (304.4 kB)

  21. GUIDELINE FOR WRITING RESEARCH CONCEPT NOTE

    The concept note will have the following five main elements: Title of your study Background of the study Problem statement Research objectives Research questions A. Title of your study The title of study originates from the discipline of your studies, that is we expect a BAF student to focus on Accounting and Finance related disciplines and BBA ...

  22. Concept Proposal

    Long-term socioeconomic empowerment of participants and their communities. Implementation Plan: Phase 1: Recruitment and assessment of participants. Phase 2: Delivery of training modules through a blended learning approach. Phase 3: Internship/job placement assistance and post-training support.

  23. The Double Empathy Problem: A Derivation Chain Analysis and Cautionary Note

    Work on the "double empathy problem" (DEP) is rapidly growing in academic and applied settings (e.g., clinical practice). It is most popular in research on conditions, like autism, which are characterized by social cognitive difficulties. Drawing from this literature, we propose that, while research on the DEP has the potential to improve understanding of both typical and atypical social ...