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151+ Research Proposal Topics [Updated 2024]

Research Proposal Topics

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

How to Select Research Proposal Topics?

Table of Contents

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

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

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

151+ Research Proposal Topics: Category Wise

Science and technology.

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

Health and Medicine

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

Social Sciences

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

Business and Economics

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

Environment and Sustainability

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

Psychology and Behavior

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

Political Science and International Relations

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

History and Cultural Studies

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

Communication and Media Studies

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

Philosophy and Ethics

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

Education Policy and Administration

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

Economics and Development Studies

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

Criminal Justice and Law

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

Public Health and Epidemiology

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

Computer Science

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

How to Compose a Research Proposal?

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

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

Tips for Composing a Research Proposal

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

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

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

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How to Select a Research Topic: A Step-by-Step Guide

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by  Antony W

June 6, 2024

how to select a research topic

Learning how to select a research topic can be the difference between failing your assignment and writing a comprehensive research paper. That’s why in this guide we’ll teach you how to select a research topic step-by-step.

You don’t need this guide if your professor has already given you a list of topics to consider for your assignment . You can skip to our guide on how to write a research paper .

If they have left it up to you to choose a topic to investigate, which they must approve before you start working on your research study, we suggest that you read the process shared in this post.

Choosing a topic after finding your research problem is important because:

  • The topic guides your research and gives you a mean to not only arrive at other interesting topics but also direct you to discover new knowledge
  • The topic you choose will govern what you say and ensures you keep a logical flow of information.

Picking a topic for a research paper can be challenging and sometimes intimidating, but it’s not impossible. In the following section, we show you how to choose the best research topic that your instructor can approve after the first review.

How to Select a Research Topic 

Below are four steps to follow to find the most suitable topic for your research paper assignment:

Step 1: Consider a Topic that Interests You 

how to choose research proposal topic

If your professor has asked you to choose a topic for your research paper, it means you can choose just about any subject to focus on in your area of study. A significant first step to take is to consider topics that interest you.

An interesting topic should meet two very important conditions.

First, it should be concise. The topic you choose should not be too broad or two narrow. Rather, it should be something focused on a specific issue. Second, the topic should allow you to find enough sources to cite in the research stage of your assignment.

The best way to determine if the research topic is interesting is to do some free writing for about 10 minutes. As you free write, think about the number of questions that people ask about the topic and try to consider why they’re important. These questions are important because they will make the research stage easier for you.

You’ll probably have a long list of interesting topics to consider for your research assignment. That’s a good first step because it means your options aren’t limited. However, you need to narrow down to only one topic for the assignment, so it’s time to start brainstorming.

Step 2: Brainstorm Your Topics 

how to choose research proposal topic

You aren’t doing research at this stage yet. You are only trying to make considerations to determine which topic will suit your research assignment.

The brainstorming stage isn’t difficult at all. It should take only a couple of hours or a few days depending on how you approach.

We recommend talking to your professor, classmates, and friends about the topics that you’ve picked and ask for their opinion. Expect mixed opinions from this audience and then consider the topics that make the most sense. Note what topics picked their interest the most and put them on top of the list.

You’ll end up removing some topics from your initial list after brainstorming, and that’s completely fine. The goal here is to end up with a topic that interests you as well as your readers.

Step 3: Define Your Topics 

how to choose research proposal topic

Check once again to make sure that your topic is a subject that you can easily define. You want to make sure the topic isn’t too broad or too narrow.

Often, a broad topic presents overwhelming amount of information, which makes it difficult to write a comprehensive research paper. A narrow topic, on the other hand, means you’ll find very little information, and therefore it can be difficult to do your assignment.

The length of the research paper, as stated in the assignment brief, should guide your topic selection.

Narrow down your list to topics that are:

  • Broad enough to allows you to find enough scholarly articles and journals for reference
  • Narrow enough to fit within the expected word count and the scope of the research

Topics that meet these two conditions should be easy to work on as they easily fit within the constraints of the research assignment.

Step 4: Read Background Information of Selected Topics  

how to choose research proposal topic

You probably have two or three topics by the time you get to this step. Now it’s time to read the background information on the topics to decide which topic to work on.

This step is important because it gives you a clear overview of the topic, enabling you to see how it relates to broader, narrower, and related concepts. Preliminary research also helps you to find keywords commonly used to describe the topic, which may be useful in further research.

It’s important to note how easy or difficult it is to find information on the topic.

Look at different sources of information to be sure you can find enough references for the topic. Such periodic indexes scan journals, newspaper articles, and magazines to find the information you’re looking for. You can even use web search engines. Google and Bing are currently that best options to consider because they make it easy for searchers to find relevant information on scholarly topics.

If you’re having a hard time to find references for a topic that you’ve so far considered for your research paper, skip it and go to the next one. Doing so will go a long way to ensure you have the right topic to work on from start to finish.

Get Research Paper Writing Help 

If you’ve found your research topic but you feel so stuck that you can’t proceed with the assignment without some assistance, we are here to help. With our research paper writing service ,  we can help you handle the assignment within the shortest time possible.

We will research your topic, develop a research question, outline the project, and help you with writing. We also get you involved in the process, allowing you to track the progress of your order until the delivery stage.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

Selecting a Research Topic: Overview

  • Refine your topic
  • Background information & facts
  • Writing help

Here are some resources to refer to when selecting a topic and preparing to write a paper:

  • MIT Writing and Communication Center "Providing free professional advice about all types of writing and speaking to all members of the MIT community."
  • Search Our Collections Find books about writing. Search by subject for: english language grammar; report writing handbooks; technical writing handbooks
  • Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation Online version of the book that provides examples and tips on grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and other writing rules.
  • Select a topic

Choosing an interesting research topic is your first challenge. Here are some tips:

  • Choose a topic that you are interested in! The research process is more relevant if you care about your topic.
  • If your topic is too broad, you will find too much information and not be able to focus.
  • Background reading can help you choose and limit the scope of your topic. 
  • Review the guidelines on topic selection outlined in your assignment.  Ask your professor or TA for suggestions.
  • Refer to lecture notes and required texts to refresh your knowledge of the course and assignment.
  • Talk about research ideas with a friend.  S/he may be able to help focus your topic by discussing issues that didn't occur to you at first.
  • WHY did you choose the topic?  What interests you about it?  Do you have an opinion about the issues involved?
  • WHO are the information providers on this topic?  Who might publish information about it?  Who is affected by the topic?  Do you know of organizations or institutions affiliated with the topic?
  • WHAT are the major questions for this topic?  Is there a debate about the topic?  Are there a range of issues and viewpoints to consider?
  • WHERE is your topic important: at the local, national or international level?  Are there specific places affected by the topic?
  • WHEN is/was your topic important?  Is it a current event or an historical issue?  Do you want to compare your topic by time periods?

Table of contents

  • Broaden your topic
  • Information Navigator home
  • Sources for facts - general
  • Sources for facts - specific subjects

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Ask Us Ask a question, make an appointment, give feedback, or visit us.

  • Next: Refine your topic >>
  • Last Updated: Jul 30, 2021 2:50 PM
  • URL: https://libguides.mit.edu/select-topic

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11.2 Steps in Developing a Research Proposal

Learning objectives.

  • Identify the steps in developing a research proposal.
  • Choose a topic and formulate a research question and working thesis.
  • Develop a research proposal.

Writing a good research paper takes time, thought, and effort. Although this assignment is challenging, it is manageable. Focusing on one step at a time will help you develop a thoughtful, informative, well-supported research paper.

Your first step is to choose a topic and then to develop research questions, a working thesis, and a written research proposal. Set aside adequate time for this part of the process. Fully exploring ideas will help you build a solid foundation for your paper.

Choosing a Topic

When you choose a topic for a research paper, you are making a major commitment. Your choice will help determine whether you enjoy the lengthy process of research and writing—and whether your final paper fulfills the assignment requirements. If you choose your topic hastily, you may later find it difficult to work with your topic. By taking your time and choosing carefully, you can ensure that this assignment is not only challenging but also rewarding.

Writers understand the importance of choosing a topic that fulfills the assignment requirements and fits the assignment’s purpose and audience. (For more information about purpose and audience, see Chapter 6 “Writing Paragraphs: Separating Ideas and Shaping Content” .) Choosing a topic that interests you is also crucial. You instructor may provide a list of suggested topics or ask that you develop a topic on your own. In either case, try to identify topics that genuinely interest you.

After identifying potential topic ideas, you will need to evaluate your ideas and choose one topic to pursue. Will you be able to find enough information about the topic? Can you develop a paper about this topic that presents and supports your original ideas? Is the topic too broad or too narrow for the scope of the assignment? If so, can you modify it so it is more manageable? You will ask these questions during this preliminary phase of the research process.

Identifying Potential Topics

Sometimes, your instructor may provide a list of suggested topics. If so, you may benefit from identifying several possibilities before committing to one idea. It is important to know how to narrow down your ideas into a concise, manageable thesis. You may also use the list as a starting point to help you identify additional, related topics. Discussing your ideas with your instructor will help ensure that you choose a manageable topic that fits the requirements of the assignment.

In this chapter, you will follow a writer named Jorge, who is studying health care administration, as he prepares a research paper. You will also plan, research, and draft your own research paper.

Jorge was assigned to write a research paper on health and the media for an introductory course in health care. Although a general topic was selected for the students, Jorge had to decide which specific issues interested him. He brainstormed a list of possibilities.

If you are writing a research paper for a specialized course, look back through your notes and course activities. Identify reading assignments and class discussions that especially engaged you. Doing so can help you identify topics to pursue.

  • Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) in the news
  • Sexual education programs
  • Hollywood and eating disorders
  • Americans’ access to public health information
  • Media portrayal of health care reform bill
  • Depictions of drugs on television
  • The effect of the Internet on mental health
  • Popularized diets (such as low-carbohydrate diets)
  • Fear of pandemics (bird flu, HINI, SARS)
  • Electronic entertainment and obesity
  • Advertisements for prescription drugs
  • Public education and disease prevention

Set a timer for five minutes. Use brainstorming or idea mapping to create a list of topics you would be interested in researching for a paper about the influence of the Internet on social networking. Do you closely follow the media coverage of a particular website, such as Twitter? Would you like to learn more about a certain industry, such as online dating? Which social networking sites do you and your friends use? List as many ideas related to this topic as you can.

Narrowing Your Topic

Once you have a list of potential topics, you will need to choose one as the focus of your essay. You will also need to narrow your topic. Most writers find that the topics they listed during brainstorming or idea mapping are broad—too broad for the scope of the assignment. Working with an overly broad topic, such as sexual education programs or popularized diets, can be frustrating and overwhelming. Each topic has so many facets that it would be impossible to cover them all in a college research paper. However, more specific choices, such as the pros and cons of sexual education in kids’ television programs or the physical effects of the South Beach diet, are specific enough to write about without being too narrow to sustain an entire research paper.

A good research paper provides focused, in-depth information and analysis. If your topic is too broad, you will find it difficult to do more than skim the surface when you research it and write about it. Narrowing your focus is essential to making your topic manageable. To narrow your focus, explore your topic in writing, conduct preliminary research, and discuss both the topic and the research with others.

Exploring Your Topic in Writing

“How am I supposed to narrow my topic when I haven’t even begun researching yet?” In fact, you may already know more than you realize. Review your list and identify your top two or three topics. Set aside some time to explore each one through freewriting. (For more information about freewriting, see Chapter 8 “The Writing Process: How Do I Begin?” .) Simply taking the time to focus on your topic may yield fresh angles.

Jorge knew that he was especially interested in the topic of diet fads, but he also knew that it was much too broad for his assignment. He used freewriting to explore his thoughts so he could narrow his topic. Read Jorge’s ideas.

Conducting Preliminary Research

Another way writers may focus a topic is to conduct preliminary research . Like freewriting, exploratory reading can help you identify interesting angles. Surfing the web and browsing through newspaper and magazine articles are good ways to start. Find out what people are saying about your topic on blogs and online discussion groups. Discussing your topic with others can also inspire you. Talk about your ideas with your classmates, your friends, or your instructor.

Jorge’s freewriting exercise helped him realize that the assigned topic of health and the media intersected with a few of his interests—diet, nutrition, and obesity. Preliminary online research and discussions with his classmates strengthened his impression that many people are confused or misled by media coverage of these subjects.

Jorge decided to focus his paper on a topic that had garnered a great deal of media attention—low-carbohydrate diets. He wanted to find out whether low-carbohydrate diets were as effective as their proponents claimed.

Writing at Work

At work, you may need to research a topic quickly to find general information. This information can be useful in understanding trends in a given industry or generating competition. For example, a company may research a competitor’s prices and use the information when pricing their own product. You may find it useful to skim a variety of reliable sources and take notes on your findings.

The reliability of online sources varies greatly. In this exploratory phase of your research, you do not need to evaluate sources as closely as you will later. However, use common sense as you refine your paper topic. If you read a fascinating blog comment that gives you a new idea for your paper, be sure to check out other, more reliable sources as well to make sure the idea is worth pursuing.

Review the list of topics you created in Note 11.18 “Exercise 1” and identify two or three topics you would like to explore further. For each of these topics, spend five to ten minutes writing about the topic without stopping. Then review your writing to identify possible areas of focus.

Set aside time to conduct preliminary research about your potential topics. Then choose a topic to pursue for your research paper.

Collaboration

Please share your topic list with a classmate. Select one or two topics on his or her list that you would like to learn more about and return it to him or her. Discuss why you found the topics interesting, and learn which of your topics your classmate selected and why.

A Plan for Research

Your freewriting and preliminary research have helped you choose a focused, manageable topic for your research paper. To work with your topic successfully, you will need to determine what exactly you want to learn about it—and later, what you want to say about it. Before you begin conducting in-depth research, you will further define your focus by developing a research question , a working thesis, and a research proposal.

Formulating a Research Question

In forming a research question, you are setting a goal for your research. Your main research question should be substantial enough to form the guiding principle of your paper—but focused enough to guide your research. A strong research question requires you not only to find information but also to put together different pieces of information, interpret and analyze them, and figure out what you think. As you consider potential research questions, ask yourself whether they would be too hard or too easy to answer.

To determine your research question, review the freewriting you completed earlier. Skim through books, articles, and websites and list the questions you have. (You may wish to use the 5WH strategy to help you formulate questions. See Chapter 8 “The Writing Process: How Do I Begin?” for more information about 5WH questions.) Include simple, factual questions and more complex questions that would require analysis and interpretation. Determine your main question—the primary focus of your paper—and several subquestions that you will need to research to answer your main question.

Here are the research questions Jorge will use to focus his research. Notice that his main research question has no obvious, straightforward answer. Jorge will need to research his subquestions, which address narrower topics, to answer his main question.

Using the topic you selected in Note 11.24 “Exercise 2” , write your main research question and at least four to five subquestions. Check that your main research question is appropriately complex for your assignment.

Constructing a Working ThesIs

A working thesis concisely states a writer’s initial answer to the main research question. It does not merely state a fact or present a subjective opinion. Instead, it expresses a debatable idea or claim that you hope to prove through additional research. Your working thesis is called a working thesis for a reason—it is subject to change. As you learn more about your topic, you may change your thinking in light of your research findings. Let your working thesis serve as a guide to your research, but do not be afraid to modify it based on what you learn.

Jorge began his research with a strong point of view based on his preliminary writing and research. Read his working thesis statement, which presents the point he will argue. Notice how it states Jorge’s tentative answer to his research question.

One way to determine your working thesis is to consider how you would complete sentences such as I believe or My opinion is . However, keep in mind that academic writing generally does not use first-person pronouns. These statements are useful starting points, but formal research papers use an objective voice.

Write a working thesis statement that presents your preliminary answer to the research question you wrote in Note 11.27 “Exercise 3” . Check that your working thesis statement presents an idea or claim that could be supported or refuted by evidence from research.

Creating a Research Proposal

A research proposal is a brief document—no more than one typed page—that summarizes the preliminary work you have completed. Your purpose in writing it is to formalize your plan for research and present it to your instructor for feedback. In your research proposal, you will present your main research question, related subquestions, and working thesis. You will also briefly discuss the value of researching this topic and indicate how you plan to gather information.

When Jorge began drafting his research proposal, he realized that he had already created most of the pieces he needed. However, he knew he also had to explain how his research would be relevant to other future health care professionals. In addition, he wanted to form a general plan for doing the research and identifying potentially useful sources. Read Jorge’s research proposal.

Read Jorge's research proposal

Before you begin a new project at work, you may have to develop a project summary document that states the purpose of the project, explains why it would be a wise use of company resources, and briefly outlines the steps involved in completing the project. This type of document is similar to a research proposal. Both documents define and limit a project, explain its value, discuss how to proceed, and identify what resources you will use.

Writing Your Own Research Proposal

Now you may write your own research proposal, if you have not done so already. Follow the guidelines provided in this lesson.

Key Takeaways

  • Developing a research proposal involves the following preliminary steps: identifying potential ideas, choosing ideas to explore further, choosing and narrowing a topic, formulating a research question, and developing a working thesis.
  • A good topic for a research paper interests the writer and fulfills the requirements of the assignment.
  • Defining and narrowing a topic helps writers conduct focused, in-depth research.
  • Writers conduct preliminary research to identify possible topics and research questions and to develop a working thesis.
  • A good research question interests readers, is neither too broad nor too narrow, and has no obvious answer.
  • A good working thesis expresses a debatable idea or claim that can be supported with evidence from research.
  • Writers create a research proposal to present their topic, main research question, subquestions, and working thesis to an instructor for approval or feedback.

Writing for Success Copyright © 2015 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Research 101 (A How-to Guide): Step 1. Choose a topic

  • Step 1. Choose a topic
  • Step 2. Get background information
  • Step 3. Create a search strategy
  • Step 4. Find books and e-books
  • Step 5. Find articles
  • Step 6. Evaluate your sources
  • Step 7. Cite your sources

Step 1. Choose a Topic

Choosing an interesting research topic can be challenging.  This video tutorial will help you select and properly scope your topic by employing questioning, free writing, and mind mapping techniques so that you can formulate a research question.

Video

Good Sources for Finding a Topic

  • CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window Browse the "hot topics" on the right hand side for inspiration.
  • 401 Prompts for Argumentative Writing, New York Times Great questions to consider for argumentative essays.
  • ProCon.org Facts, news, and thousands of diverse opinions on controversial issues in a pro-con format.
  • Room For Debate, New York Times This website, created by editorial staff from the New York Times, explores close to 1,500 news events and other timely issues. Knowledgeable outside contributors provide subject background and readers may contribute their own views. Great help for choosing a topic!
  • US News & World Report: Debate Club Pro/Con arguments on current issues.
  • Writing Prompts, New York Times New York Times Opinion articles that are geared toward students and invite comment.

Tips for Choosing a Topic

  • Choose a topic that interests you!   
  • Pick a manageable topic, not too broad, not too narrow. Reading background info can help you choose and limit the scope of your topic.
  • Review lecture notes and class readings for ideas.
  • Check with your instructor to make sure your topic fits with the assignment.

Picking your topic IS research!

  • Developing a Research Question Worksheet

Mind Mapping Tools

Mind mapping, a visual form of brainstorming, is an effective technique for developing a topic.  Here are some free tools to create mind maps.

  • Bubbl.us Free account allows you to save 3 mind maps, download as image or HTML, and share with others.
  • Coggle Sign in with your Google account to create maps that you can download as PDF or PNG or share with others.
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  • URL: https://libguides.depaul.edu/research101

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  • Knowledge Base
  • Starting the research process

A Beginner's Guide to Starting the Research Process

Research process steps

When you have to write a thesis or dissertation , it can be hard to know where to begin, but there are some clear steps you can follow.

The research process often begins with a very broad idea for a topic you’d like to know more about. You do some preliminary research to identify a  problem . After refining your research questions , you can lay out the foundations of your research design , leading to a proposal that outlines your ideas and plans.

This article takes you through the first steps of the research process, helping you narrow down your ideas and build up a strong foundation for your research project.

Table of contents

Step 1: choose your topic, step 2: identify a problem, step 3: formulate research questions, step 4: create a research design, step 5: write a research proposal, other interesting articles.

First you have to come up with some ideas. Your thesis or dissertation topic can start out very broad. Think about the general area or field you’re interested in—maybe you already have specific research interests based on classes you’ve taken, or maybe you had to consider your topic when applying to graduate school and writing a statement of purpose .

Even if you already have a good sense of your topic, you’ll need to read widely to build background knowledge and begin narrowing down your ideas. Conduct an initial literature review to begin gathering relevant sources. As you read, take notes and try to identify problems, questions, debates, contradictions and gaps. Your aim is to narrow down from a broad area of interest to a specific niche.

Make sure to consider the practicalities: the requirements of your programme, the amount of time you have to complete the research, and how difficult it will be to access sources and data on the topic. Before moving onto the next stage, it’s a good idea to discuss the topic with your thesis supervisor.

>>Read more about narrowing down a research topic

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So you’ve settled on a topic and found a niche—but what exactly will your research investigate, and why does it matter? To give your project focus and purpose, you have to define a research problem .

The problem might be a practical issue—for example, a process or practice that isn’t working well, an area of concern in an organization’s performance, or a difficulty faced by a specific group of people in society.

Alternatively, you might choose to investigate a theoretical problem—for example, an underexplored phenomenon or relationship, a contradiction between different models or theories, or an unresolved debate among scholars.

To put the problem in context and set your objectives, you can write a problem statement . This describes who the problem affects, why research is needed, and how your research project will contribute to solving it.

>>Read more about defining a research problem

Next, based on the problem statement, you need to write one or more research questions . These target exactly what you want to find out. They might focus on describing, comparing, evaluating, or explaining the research problem.

A strong research question should be specific enough that you can answer it thoroughly using appropriate qualitative or quantitative research methods. It should also be complex enough to require in-depth investigation, analysis, and argument. Questions that can be answered with “yes/no” or with easily available facts are not complex enough for a thesis or dissertation.

In some types of research, at this stage you might also have to develop a conceptual framework and testable hypotheses .

>>See research question examples

The research design is a practical framework for answering your research questions. It involves making decisions about the type of data you need, the methods you’ll use to collect and analyze it, and the location and timescale of your research.

There are often many possible paths you can take to answering your questions. The decisions you make will partly be based on your priorities. For example, do you want to determine causes and effects, draw generalizable conclusions, or understand the details of a specific context?

You need to decide whether you will use primary or secondary data and qualitative or quantitative methods . You also need to determine the specific tools, procedures, and materials you’ll use to collect and analyze your data, as well as your criteria for selecting participants or sources.

>>Read more about creating a research design

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how to choose research proposal topic

Finally, after completing these steps, you are ready to complete a research proposal . The proposal outlines the context, relevance, purpose, and plan of your research.

As well as outlining the background, problem statement, and research questions, the proposal should also include a literature review that shows how your project will fit into existing work on the topic. The research design section describes your approach and explains exactly what you will do.

You might have to get the proposal approved by your supervisor before you get started, and it will guide the process of writing your thesis or dissertation.

>>Read more about writing a research proposal

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

  • Sampling methods
  • Simple random sampling
  • Stratified sampling
  • Cluster sampling
  • Likert scales
  • Reproducibility

 Statistics

  • Null hypothesis
  • Statistical power
  • Probability distribution
  • Effect size
  • Poisson distribution

Research bias

  • Optimism bias
  • Cognitive bias
  • Implicit bias
  • Hawthorne effect
  • Anchoring bias
  • Explicit bias

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how to choose research proposal topic

  • How to Choose a PhD Research Topic
  • Finding a PhD

Introduction

Whilst there are plenty of resources available to help prospective PhD students find doctoral programmes, deciding on a research topic is a process students often find more difficult.

Some advertised PhD programmes have predefined titles, so the exact topic is decided already. Generally, these programmes exist mainly in STEM, though other fields also have them. Funded projects are more likely to have defined titles, and structured aims and objectives.

Self funded projects, and those in fields such as arts and humanities, are less likely to have defined titles. The flexibility of topic selection means more scope exists for applicants to propose research ideas and suit the topic of research to their interests.

A middle ground also exists where Universities advertise funded PhD programmes in subjects without a defined scope, for example: “PhD Studentship in Biomechanics”. The applicant can then liaise with the project supervisor to choose a particular title such as “A study of fatigue and impact resistance of biodegradable knee implants”.

If a predefined programme is not right for you, then you need to propose your own research topic. There are several factors to consider when choosing a good research topic, which will be outlined in this article.

How to Choose a Research Topic

Our first piece of advice is to PhD candidates is to stop thinking about ‘finding’ a research topic, as it is unlikely that you will. Instead, think about developing a research topic (from research and conversations with advisors).

Consider several ideas and critically appraise them:

  • You must be able to explain to others why your chosen topic is worth studying.
  • You must be genuinely interested in the subject area.
  • You must be competent and equipped to answer the research question.
  • You must set achievable and measurable aims and objectives.
  • You need to be able to achieve your objectives within a given timeframe.
  • Your research question must be original and contribute to the field of study.

We have outlined the key considerations you should use when developing possible topics. We explore these below:

Focus on your interests and career aspirations

It is important to choose a topic of research that you are genuinely interested in. The decision you make will shape the rest of your career. Remember, a full-time programme lasts 3-4 years, and there will be unforeseen challenges during this time. If you are not passionate about the study, you will struggle to find motivation during these difficult periods.

You should also look to your academic and professional background. If there are any modules you undertook as part of your Undergraduate/Master degree that you particularly enjoyed or excelled in? These could form part of your PhD research topic. Similarly, if you have professional work experience, this could lead to you asking questions which can only be answered through research.

When deciding on a PhD research topic you should always consider your long-term career aspirations. For example, as a physicist, if you wish to become an astrophysicist, a research project studying black holes would be more relevant to you than a research project studying nuclear fission.

Read dissertations and published journals

Reading dissertations and published journals is a great way to identify potential PhD topics. When reviewing existing research ask yourself:

  • What has been done and what do existing results show?
  • What did previous projects involve (e.g. lab-work or fieldwork)?
  • How often are papers published in the field?
  • Are your research ideas original?
  • Is there value in your research question?
  • Could I expand on or put my own spin on this research?

Reading dissertations will also give you an insight into the practical aspects of doctoral study, such as what methodology the author used, how much data analysis was required and how was information presented.

You can also think of this process as a miniature literature review . You are searching for gaps in knowledge and developing a PhD project to address them. Focus on recent publications (e.g. in the last five years). In particular, the literature review of recent publications will give an excellent summary of the state of existing knowledge, and what research questions remain unanswered.

If you have the opportunity to attend an academic conference, go for it! This is often an excellent way to find out current theories in the industry and the research direction. This knowledge could reveal a possible research idea or topic for further study.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

Discuss research topic ideas with a PhD supervisor

Discuss your research topic ideas with a supervisor. This could be your current undergraduate/masters supervisor, or potential supervisors of advertised PhD programmes at different institutions. Come to these meetings prepared with initial PhD topic ideas, and your findings from reading published journals. PhD supervisors will be more receptive to your ideas if you can demonstrate you have thought about them and are committed to your research.

You should discuss your research interests, what you have found through reading publications, and what you are proposing to research. Supervisors who have expertise in your chosen field will have insight into the gaps in knowledge that exist, what is being done to address them, and if there is any overlap between your proposed research ideas and ongoing research projects.

Talking to an expert in the field can shape your research topic to something more tangible, which has clear aims and objectives. It can also find potential shortfalls of your PhD ideas.

It is important to remember, however, that although it is good to develop your research topic based on feedback, you should not let the supervisor decide a topic for you. An interesting topic for a supervisor may not be interesting to you, and a supervisor is more likely to advise on a topic title which lends itself to a career in academia.

Another tip is to talk to a PhD student or researcher who is involved in a similar research project. Alternatively, you can usually find a relevant research group within your University to talk to. They can explain in more detail their experiences and suggest what your PhD programme could involve with respect to daily routines and challenges.

Look at advertised PhD Programmes

Use our Search tool , or look on University PhD listing pages to identify advertised PhD programmes for ideas.

  • What kind of PhD research topics are available?
  • Are these similar to your ideas?
  • Are you interested in any of these topics?
  • What do these programmes entail?

The popularity of similar PhD programmes to your proposed topic is a good indicator that universities see value in the research area. The final bullet point is perhaps the most valuable takeaway from looking at advertised listings. Review what similar programmes involve, and whether this is something you would like to do. If so, a similar research topic would allow you to do this.

Writing a Research Proposal

As part of the PhD application process , you may be asked to summarise your proposed research topic in a research proposal. This is a document which summarises your intended research and will include the title of your proposed project, an Abstract, Background and Rationale, Research Aims and Objectives, Research Methodology, Timetable, and a Bibliography. If you are required to submit this document then read our guidance on how to write a research proposal for your PhD application.

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265 Powerful Research Proposal Topics to Consider [+ Writing Tips]

265 Powerful Research Proposal Topics to Consider [+ Writing Tips]

A research proposal is a common task for students of different levels and areas of study. Although it is relatively straightforward, it still can be hard to start and choose an engaging topic. In this article, you will find 255 strong suggestions on crime & law, business, finance, politics, sociology, and other subjects. Feel free to use this list for your inspiration when writing your paper. Alternatively, you can look at sample essays for free from our database and try to come up with the topic on your own.

Let’s start!

What is a Research Proposal?

  • Crime & Law Research Topics
  • Business Proposal Topics
  • English Proposal Topics
  • Interesting Proposal Topics

Undergraduate Research Proposal

  • How To Write A Proposal

First thing first, let’s define what a research proposal is. This type of assignment is similar to research; however, it’s shorter and more general. It aims at introducing a topic that needs a more in-depth discussion. The student should prove that this issue requires further research. Usually, professors assign this type of task for you to practice before working on a bigger format.

Key Sections of Research Proposal.

A typical research proposal consists of three key sections: introduction, literature review, and methodology of your future study. Keep reading to get to know more about each part and how you can succeed in writing them.

The length of a research proposal depends on the future paper you’re writing it for and on your task requirements. It can be from four to twenty pages. Finally, all proposals should meet the standards of the referencing style that your professor asks for.

You should also understand the difference between a qualitive and a quantitative research proposal. The first one collects non-numerical data while the second one presents numerical information. The results of a qualitive research proposal can be displayed as photographs or recordings, while the quantative research results are usually shown as graphs and tables.

Now, let’s see what topics you can choose for your assignment. Click on the links we shared to find more research proposal examples.

Crime & Law Research Proposal Topics

Law students frequently get tasks like research proposals to develop their academic writing skills and understand complicated cases better. You can be more creative with law & criminology research proposal topics than you expect. Find inspiration for your work in the list below!

International Law Topics

International relations are complicated due to numerous external and internal factors. So, setting laws that would be applicable within different societies is a tough task. In the selection of international law topics below, we collected some challenging ideas. Check it out!

  • International law and CIA rendition .
  • Individual legal personality in international law .
  • The importance of international treaties in warfare.
  • Russian and european international competition law .
  • International marine pollution law .
  • Human rights in international law.
  • The relations between domestic and international laws .
  • International law, organizations, and power .
  • International trade law evolution.
  • Legal personality development in international law .

Business Law Topics

Business is another field full of unresolved issues and puzzles from the law perspective. From ownership to taxes – each aspect hides dozens of nuances and business law cases. Let’s see what topics you can discuss in your paper.

  • International business law .
  • Business law concept and employee arbitration .
  • Personnel recruitment and equal opportunities law .
  • Piracy effects on the profitability of a business.
  • Salesperson’s negligence and consumer law .
  • The practical use of trademark and copyright by entities.
  • Model business corporation act: the australian law .
  • The effects of religion on the implementation of contract law .
  • Terrorism as global issue and preventive laws .
  • US traditional business law and Its elements .

Criminology Research Proposal Topics

Today, more and more fields of study discuss equality-related issues. Criminology is not an exception. The most popular topics concern crimes against women, children, minorities, mass violence, race-based felony, etc. Discover more engaging law research proposal topics related to criminology in our list below!

  • The law of criminal procedure .
  • Understanding sexual harassment law in action .
  • Three-strikes law for preventing violent crimes .
  • The investigation of domestic violence cases.
  • Criminal behavior investigation and search warrants .
  • Marijuana legalization and criminalization .
  • The relations between mental health and criminal behavior .

Criminal Behavior Fact.

  • Criminal behavior theories and contributing factors .
  • Criminal profiling and police corruption .
  • Is criminal behavior dependable on one’s genes?
  • Grounds of victimization.
  • The criminal analysis of the O.J. Simpson case .
  • The development of serial killers .
  • Eyewitness testimony and its role in criminal cases .
  • Legal issue and criminal evidence .

Criminal Justice Research Proposal Topics

Delivering justice to those who committed crimes can be a complex process. There are many unexpected and controversial issues that institutions should take into account when solving particular cases. We prepared some criminal justice research proposal topics to dwell on. See the following list.

  • Criminal law: case of susie and perry .
  • Pulling the trigger: evaluating criminal gun laws .
  • The ethics of capital punishment.
  • The difference between war and civil crimes.
  • Pretrial procedures in the criminal justice system .
  • Juvenile detention criminal procedure.
  • Plea-bargaining law impact on criminal justice .
  • False confession in the criminal justice system .
  • The dissimilarity of criminal justice laws in different states.
  • Professional ethics in criminal justice: Singleton vs Norris .
  • Racial bias in criminal justice systems and workplaces .
  • Gender bias in criminal justice laws.
  • Confessions in saudi vs US criminal justice systems .
  • Severe financial crimes and their investigation.
  • Jury’s professionalism in criminal trials .

Business Research Proposal Topics

Business is a complex area that consists of various disciplines like marketing, finance, recruitment, business administration, and so on. In this section, we selected 60 business research proposal topics related to each of them. First, let’s see what ideas there are for general business issues.

  • Quality & environmental management for business excellence .
  • Entrepreneurship and small business management .
  • How can small businesses survive financial instability?
  • Quantitative techniques in business to manage quality .
  • Best strategies for an effective sales pitch.
  • SAS institute’s generic & business strategies .
  • Capitalism and free market issues.
  • The impact of leadership skills on business management .
  • International business: Sino-American trade war .
  • The impact of globalization on small businesses .
  • Needs-based business plan and project management .
  • Importance of negotiation contracts in the business .
  • Personal success factors in the business world .
  • Consequences of working overtime.
  • Time management as an effective business tool.

Marketing Research Proposal Topics

Today, a well-built marketing department can contribute a lot to the company’s success. On the other hand, having a weak promotion strategy can make even the best product unnoticeable on the market. Let’s see which marketing research proposal topics you can bring to light!

  • Telecommuting as a trend of contemporary business.
  • Differences between traditional and digital marketing.
  • The importance of creating a consistent brand image .
  • Market globalization and global marketing pitfalls.
  • International marketing: global corporation vs. company.
  • Use of alternative media in marketing communications .
  • Gamification as a marketing tool.
  • Paid search marketing and search engine optimization.
  • How do brands exploit impulsive buying ?
  • Influencer marketing in the fashion industry.
  • How to get readers engaged with your content?
  • The evolution of consumer behavior in the past twenty years.
  • Advertising analytics and marketing innovations.
  • The distinction in marketing strategies across different cultures.
  • Which Marketing Channel Has the Biggest Potential Today?

Research Proposal Topics in Human Resource Management

Any business is more about people than about a particular product. Hiring the right fits and supporting them in their working journey is challenging – many issues can appear out of nowhere. Discuss one of the research proposal topics in human resource management from our list below and shed light on the questions you find crucial.

  • Corporate social responsibility & business ethics.
  • Ethics in business: child labor in chocolate industry.

Child Labor in Chocolate Industry.

  • Human resources: social media policy in companies.
  • Hiring the right fits: best strategies.
  • Human resources and organization management.
  • How to deal with overqualified employees?
  • Aligning human resources and business strategy.
  • The responsibilities of a human resource manager regarding talent hunting and management.
  • Healthcare human resources management and changes.
  • What fringe benefits are the most desirable for employees today?
  • Google company: international human resources management.
  • Ways of encouraging employee’s personal and professional growth .
  • Human resources in global business management.
  • What factors promote employee’s loyalty ?
  • Federal and state human resources in Florida’ health care.

Finance Research Proposal Topics

Excellent finance management is the key to success for any company. This area has multiple internal and external aspects that should be considered when building business plans and strategies. In the list below, you will find finance research proposal topics related to such issues as corporate responsibility, investment, crisis management, shares, etc.

  • Project cost and finance management challenges.
  • Foreign direct investment and collaborative ventures.
  • The impact of global financial crisis on large-scale companies.
  • Fiscal policy: federal investment and taxes.
  • Corporate social responsibility and corporate finance.
  • Finance and corporate responsibility.
  • Financial constraints and investment cash flow sensitivity.
  • Roles of finance in business modernization.
  • The issues of traditional finance.
  • Investor’s role in creating culture of excellence.
  • Large profit margins and utilitarian business ethics.
  • Finance and crisis management .
  • Are a firm’s cash flow and profit different?
  • The role of shares in the company’s financial system .
  • Debt management process and its impact on the company.

English Research Proposal Topics

English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. It’s associated with outstanding achievements and changes in society. Also, it brought to light a handful of written masterpieces and their famous authors. Discuss one of the works or issues from the list below – dive into the depth of language!

Research Proposal: English Literature Topics

It’s hard to deny the talent of such writers as Jane Austen or Mark Twain. However, there are also less well-known masters, like Sylvia Plath, whose writings also deserve your undivided attention. Their works will teach you a lot about life in the previous centuries. Discover more research proposal English literature topics below!

  • Meanings in “Lady Lazarus” poem by Sylvia Plath.
  • Themes in poems by Robert Frost and Dylan Thomas.
  • Gender roles in Jane Austen’s novels.
  • Portraying feminism in the 20th century American poems.
  • War attitudes in American and British poems.
  • The story behind “ The Lord of the Rings .”

Tolkien’s stories fact.

  • The definition of a Noble Outlaw and examples in English literature.
  • Death in Emily Dickinson’s poems .
  • Jane Austen’s novels: pastiches’ analysis.
  • Why do authors create fictional languages?
  • How is piracy depicted in “Treasure Island”?
  • Slavery in “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” the novel by Mark Twain.
  • The hidden concepts and parallels in “The War of Worlds.”
  • Satire in “Gulliver’s Travels.”
  • Conflicts in Harper Lee’s novel “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

Research Proposal on the English Language

Language is a diverse world that lives by its rules and gets constantly enriched by its speakers. English is a unique one in terms of being a second language to representatives of multiple nations and cultures. That’s why it is influenced by many languages and develops faster than any other one. We prepared fifteen topics for a research proposal on the English language to dwell on its current issues.

  • Gender differences in using the english language.
  • Speech disorders in english language learners.
  • How does english influence other languages?
  • Challenges in teaching english as a foreign language.
  • The status of english as an international language.
  • The origins of the english language.
  • The reasons behind the differences between American and British english .
  • Black english and non-standard language.
  • Language as a political tool.
  • Phenomena that enrich the english language.
  • Transgender community and heterosexism in language.
  • The future of the english language.
  • The influence of author’s neologisms on the english language.
  • Diversity psychology: foreign canguage and cognition.
  • How are ethnic minorities in the US shaping the english language?

Interesting Research Proposal Topics

Writing a research proposal can be more entertaining if you’re presenting a topic you’re deeply interested in. Whether it is politics or psychology, there is a lot to talk about. In this section, you can choose an exciting topic for a research proposal on different subjects and issues. Let’s see what we selected for you!

Political Science Research Proposal Topics

Today’s politics is developing in a tight bond with the issues of inequality, climate change, and others. Society requires the government’s immediate decisions regarding the subsequent problems. The relations between certain countries also become tense, making politicians react to urgent issues as soon as possible. All the above make politics a complex and controversial subject. Expose your thoughts on one of the political science research proposal topics we have chosen for you.

  • African-American political science: 14th amendment.
  • Political environment: democrats and republicans.
  • The relation between climate and politics.
  • Political activism: “Forces of Labor” by Beverly Silver.
  • The challenges of 2020 United States presidential election .
  • The relation between poverty and corrupted government.
  • Hegemony vs. counter hegemony: power & speech.
  • The American tradition of federalism and multiculturalism.
  • Who is more responsible for building democracy – government or society?
  • Authoritarian & totalitarian autocracy in examples.
  • The reasons why socialism has failed.
  • Is global democracy achievable in the future?
  • The origins of Sino-American conquest.
  • Nuclear Politics in the Modern World.
  • World government: utopian dream or dystopian nightmare?

Research Proposal Topics in Education

Education is a vital part of one’s life and growth. Moreover, we spend most of our youth studying and preparing for our future life. So, why not make the most of this time? In recent years, the views on the perfect study process have changed a lot. Speak out your ideas on these research proposal topics in education:

  • Teenagers’ contemporary issues: bullying at school.
  • Math and science opportunities in a preschool program.
  • Authoritative teachers: classic behavior or remnants of the past?
  • Psychological development of a school-aged child.
  • Should schoolgoers take sex education classes?
  • The reasons why education is not free.
  • High school challenges in personal experience.
  • Will there be no schools in the future?
  • Factors affecting technology uses in schools.

5 Common Uses Of Technology In The Classroom.

  • Methods of making the study process more practical.
  • Do young people need to get a master’s degree ?
  • Homeschooling disadvantages for students and parents .
  • How many foreign languages should a person know?
  • Is education the key to building a successful career ?
  • School experience for students with disabilities.

Sociology Research Proposal Topics

Society is constantly evolving so that more and more new issues arise. Today, we speak more about gender, race, sexual orientation, and ethnic minorities than at any time in the history of humankind. What will be the results of this discussion? We suggest you express your opinion on one of the sociology research proposal topics!

  • Ideal society and its constituents.
  • Substance abuse and impact on the family.
  • Gender bias : will the world ever eliminate them?
  • Parasocial relationships and purchasing habits.
  • The origins of vandalism.
  • Community capacity building against suicide.
  • The role of religion in contemporary society.
  • The effects of ethnic minorities on prevailing nation.
  • Sexual orientation as a social construction and reality.
  • How does climate change shape society?
  • Cultural and social literacy for millennials.
  • The society of future: possible scenarios.
  • The relations between art and society .
  • Can intolerance be fully eliminated?
  • White supremacy and historical blindness.

Psychology Research Proposal Topics

Today’s youth cares about their mental health more than the previous generation. Is that for good? Knowing what’s going inside your head can have an immense impact on your quality of life. This is a truly life-changing journey. The topical issues now are anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD. We prepared fifteen psychology research proposal topics for you to discuss.

  • Generalized anxiety disorder: treatment.
  • Mindfulness-based stress reduction.
  • The difference between clinical and situational depression.
  • The concept of brain plasticity.
  • Why has anxiety become so common today?
  • Food and mental health: relations and impact.
  • Childhood relationships & adolescent mental health.
  • Defense mechanisms in psychological practice.
  • How do political regimes influence mental health ?
  • Postpartum depression: diagnosis and treatment.
  • Personality types : myth or science-based classification?
  • The impact of Freud’s ideas on today’s psychology.
  • Were Freud’s statements innovative at his time?
  • Psychology behind overworking and professional burnout .
  • Positive psychology for military leadership.

Research Proposal Topics in Information Technology

Today’s life depends a lot on technology and its development. From work to health issues – many things can be solved or complicated by machines or algorithms. New technologies require new laws and ways of coping with everyday situations. However, there’s no correct answer whether they are good or bad. We prepared some absorbing information technology research proposal topics for you!

  • Cyber surveillance and privacy of internet users.
  • Military drones: innovation project.
  • Cybersecurity and intellectual property issues.
  • National incident management and command systems.
  • The role of artificial intelligence in everyday life.
  • The potential risks of online voting.
  • Cybercrime and its impact on society.
  • Artificial intelligence and language processing : contemporary challenges.
  • Information technology-based data management in retail.
  • The use of technologies in farming .
  • Email Fraud and user protection strategies.
  • Technological advancement of the study process.
  • The approaches to maximizing the use of big data.
  • Wireless technology and applications.
  • The relations between technologies and globalization .

Biology Research Proposal Topics

Are you curious about what’s going on inside your body or any other living being? If you’re studying this, the biology research proposal topics below will be handy for you! We selected ideas for papers about bacteria, cells, innovations in biotechnologies, and more.

  • Bacteria differentiation: endospore and acid-fast staining.
  • The reasons behind common plant diseases.
  • Water treatments and maximum plant height.
  • Specific features of the underwater living beings.
  • Camouflage techniques in the animal world.
  • Agricultural biotechnology and its pros and cons.
  • The impact of hormones on our wellbeing.
  • Bacteria lab: enriched, selective, differential media.
  • Homosexuality among mammals.
  • Is domestication harmful to racoons?
  • Biomimicry: innovations inspired by nature.
  • Who has the world’s most incredible digestion systems among mammals?
  • Stem cell debate.
  • Molecular biology and genetics.
  • Can aging be reverted?

Public Health Research Proposal Topics

With the advancements in governmental systems and technologies, public healthcare becomes more accessible and effective, yet many issues are to be resolved in the future. We found some research proposal topics in nursing and other medical disciplines that will be interesting to study.

  • The epidemiology of obesity.
  • Are addictions inevitable?
  • Social media in nursing: pitfalls and opportunities.
  • Can music be used as remedy?
  • Artificial intelligence in healthcare: pros & cons.
  • Chinese traditional medicine : what can it teach the west?
  • National patient safety goals: critical care access.
  • The effects of body positive movement on obesity rate .

Obesity Rate in the U.S.

  • Health issues caused by climate change.
  • Seasonal allergies and their impact on our health.
  • The relations between psychology and physical health .
  • Quit smoking: therapies and medications.
  • AIDS treatment and common myths.
  • Stress reduction programs for pregnant women.
  • The importance of vaccines today.

You can find many engaging topics to discuss during your college or university life. We selected ideas for your paper that relate to different subjects and areas of study. Feel free to pick up any topics for an undergraduate research proposal you’re curious about and study it.

  • “The Great Gatsby” a novel by Francis Scott Fitzgerald.
  • “Pride and Prejudice” a novel by Jane Austen.
  • Shakespeare’s Masterpieces: Why They Deserve attention.
  • Political ideologies and their differences.
  • The evolution of gender .
  • Race and gender in public relations.
  • Why is It hard to achieve complete democracy ?
  • Should people under 18 get a tattoo?
  • Should living with parents after 30 be normalized?
  • Fat acceptance and body positivity.
  • How can society make the life of disabled people better?
  • Divorce effects on children’s behavior.
  • The benefits of Wi-Fi.
  • How can investing be useful for young people?
  • Artificial intelligence: pros and cons.
  • Artificial intelligence and free will .
  • Key aging factors among women.
  • Can zodiac signs theories be scientifically proven?
  • The evolution of cinematography .
  • Space tourism: evolution and prospects.

How To Write A Research Proposal

If you made it down here, you probably want to know more about the research proposal structure. In this section, we’ll discuss the specific features of this type of assignment and how to title a research proposal.

A research proposal is a compelling abstract that introduces your proposed paper. In this writing, you present the key questions of the research. The research proposal format can be described as general, summarizing, and brief. Your main goal here is to demonstrate that the topic you’ve chosen deserves more attention.

How To Title A Research Proposal

Your research proposal should grab attention from the very first second when the reader looks at its title. Let’ see which points you should consider to make it impressive and engaging.

  • The title should clearly state the subject under study.
  • Stimulate reader’s interest by using powerful adjectives and adverbs – speak to their emotions.
  • Hint at what type of work is that. For example, if you contrast two methods or situations, be sure to mention both within your title.

If you’re assigned a particular topic, it can be a little easier for you to title your research proposal. Simply rephrase the sentence or sentences in your task and cut off too specific information. Remember that your title should be as short as 10-15 substantive words.

Research Proposal Outline.

Research Proposal Outline

It’s not enough to write valuable content. You should also know how to organize it properly. That’s why a good outline brings you halfway to a successfully completed task. A research proposal outline is similar to other academic papers. However, its structure has some crucial points to consider. Here are seven critical elements of a superb research proposal:

  • Title We already discussed how to create an outstanding title for your paper. However, it’s essential that this is just a proposed name for your work, and you can revise it when it comes to working on the actual research paper.
  • Research Proposal Abstract A research proposal introduction typically comes in the format of an abstract. It’s similar to a thesis statement but can be presented in up to 100 words. In this part, you should concisely point out the key issues to be discussed in your paper.
  • Research Context In this section, you should explain the background behind the issue you’re studying. Introduce the reader to details and facts that will make understanding the subject and your conclusions easier. Start with talking about the area of study in general and then move to the smaller notions you operate in your paper.
  • Research Questions Before starting your paper, dwell on the questions you’re trying to answer. Write them down separately first, and then present the essential ones in this section of a research proposal. One of the questions you will mention should relate to the usability of your research results: will this data be empirical or theoretical?
  • Research Methods In this part, you should explain how you’re going to conduct your research. There are various methods of working with data: visiting libraries, taking interviews, field working, etc. Most of the research works are fully or partly library-based, so don’t forget to mention the exact institutions you will visit to find specific information. For empirical data collecting, it’s important to present a detailed description and potential problems you may encounter in the process.
  • Significance of Research Your proposal should show how your research can be helpful and applicable for further exploration. It should also be original and seek answers to formerly unresolved issues.
  • Works Cited A crucial part of any academic paper is the bibliography. Be sure to check the referencing style you should use and what requirements this part has.

In today’s article, we presented 265 topic proposals for a research paper for you to find inspiration and ideas for your work. You can also discover dozens of examples from one of the largest essay sample databases – StudyCorgi.

Stay tuned and follow our latest updates to know how to excel in your studies!

  • A Guide to Research Proposals – Sacred Heart University Library
  • Research Guides – USC Libraries
  • How to Write a Research Proposal – University of Birmingham
  • International Law Topics – University of Queensland
  • Writing a Research Paper – OWL Purdue
  • Outline for a Research Proposal Project – Portland State University
  • A Sample Research Proposal with Comments
  • Where do I Begin? – OWL Purdue
  • Annotade Sample Research Proposal
  • How to Choose a Dissertation Topic For Your Doctoral Degree – Walden University
  • Choosing a Topic – Fontbonne University
  • Thesis Topics – LSA Psychology University of Michigan
  • Choosing a Topic for Your Research Paper – OWL Purdue
  • Undergraduate Sample Research Topics: Political Science – Western Michigan University
  • Business Research Topic Ideas – Frances Willson Thompson Library
  • How to write a research proposal – The University of Sydney

Writing and Research: Choosing a Topic

  • Getting Started
  • Choosing a Topic
  • Creating an Outline
  • Conducting Research
  • Drafting an Essay
  • Revising an Essay
  • Creating Citations

Header Image

topic bibguru illustration

Using Wikipedia to Generate Topic Ideas

wikipedia bibguru illustration

Wikipedia   Although it's generally not acceptable to cite Wikipedia as a source in your paper, it's a great tool for exploring topic ideas and gathering search terms.

Additional Resources on Choosing Topics

Selecting a Research Topic   MIT Libraries covers the basics of selecting a research topic.

Choosing a Research Topic   Grinnell College Library offers in-depth advice for choosing, narrowing, and/or broadening research topics.

401 Prompts for Argumentative Writing   The New York Times features 401 ideas for research questions based on an array of contemporary issues.

How to Generate Topic Ideas for Research Papers   This article offers tips for generating research topic ideas.

Research Proposals

How to Write a Research Proposal This guide covers the components of a research proposal and how to write one.

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Research Method

Home » How To Write A Research Proposal – Step-by-Step [Template]

How To Write A Research Proposal – Step-by-Step [Template]

Table of Contents

How To Write a Research Proposal

How To Write a Research Proposal

Writing a Research proposal involves several steps to ensure a well-structured and comprehensive document. Here is an explanation of each step:

1. Title and Abstract

  • Choose a concise and descriptive title that reflects the essence of your research.
  • Write an abstract summarizing your research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. It should provide a brief overview of your proposal.

2. Introduction:

  • Provide an introduction to your research topic, highlighting its significance and relevance.
  • Clearly state the research problem or question you aim to address.
  • Discuss the background and context of the study, including previous research in the field.

3. Research Objectives

  • Outline the specific objectives or aims of your research. These objectives should be clear, achievable, and aligned with the research problem.

4. Literature Review:

  • Conduct a comprehensive review of relevant literature and studies related to your research topic.
  • Summarize key findings, identify gaps, and highlight how your research will contribute to the existing knowledge.

5. Methodology:

  • Describe the research design and methodology you plan to employ to address your research objectives.
  • Explain the data collection methods, instruments, and analysis techniques you will use.
  • Justify why the chosen methods are appropriate and suitable for your research.

6. Timeline:

  • Create a timeline or schedule that outlines the major milestones and activities of your research project.
  • Break down the research process into smaller tasks and estimate the time required for each task.

7. Resources:

  • Identify the resources needed for your research, such as access to specific databases, equipment, or funding.
  • Explain how you will acquire or utilize these resources to carry out your research effectively.

8. Ethical Considerations:

  • Discuss any ethical issues that may arise during your research and explain how you plan to address them.
  • If your research involves human subjects, explain how you will ensure their informed consent and privacy.

9. Expected Outcomes and Significance:

  • Clearly state the expected outcomes or results of your research.
  • Highlight the potential impact and significance of your research in advancing knowledge or addressing practical issues.

10. References:

  • Provide a list of all the references cited in your proposal, following a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).

11. Appendices:

  • Include any additional supporting materials, such as survey questionnaires, interview guides, or data analysis plans.

Research Proposal Format

The format of a research proposal may vary depending on the specific requirements of the institution or funding agency. However, the following is a commonly used format for a research proposal:

1. Title Page:

  • Include the title of your research proposal, your name, your affiliation or institution, and the date.

2. Abstract:

  • Provide a brief summary of your research proposal, highlighting the research problem, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

3. Introduction:

  • Introduce the research topic and provide background information.
  • State the research problem or question you aim to address.
  • Explain the significance and relevance of the research.
  • Review relevant literature and studies related to your research topic.
  • Summarize key findings and identify gaps in the existing knowledge.
  • Explain how your research will contribute to filling those gaps.

5. Research Objectives:

  • Clearly state the specific objectives or aims of your research.
  • Ensure that the objectives are clear, focused, and aligned with the research problem.

6. Methodology:

  • Describe the research design and methodology you plan to use.
  • Explain the data collection methods, instruments, and analysis techniques.
  • Justify why the chosen methods are appropriate for your research.

7. Timeline:

8. Resources:

  • Explain how you will acquire or utilize these resources effectively.

9. Ethical Considerations:

  • If applicable, explain how you will ensure informed consent and protect the privacy of research participants.

10. Expected Outcomes and Significance:

11. References:

12. Appendices:

Research Proposal Template

Here’s a template for a research proposal:

1. Introduction:

2. Literature Review:

3. Research Objectives:

4. Methodology:

5. Timeline:

6. Resources:

7. Ethical Considerations:

8. Expected Outcomes and Significance:

9. References:

10. Appendices:

Research Proposal Sample

Title: The Impact of Online Education on Student Learning Outcomes: A Comparative Study

1. Introduction

Online education has gained significant prominence in recent years, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This research proposal aims to investigate the impact of online education on student learning outcomes by comparing them with traditional face-to-face instruction. The study will explore various aspects of online education, such as instructional methods, student engagement, and academic performance, to provide insights into the effectiveness of online learning.

2. Objectives

The main objectives of this research are as follows:

  • To compare student learning outcomes between online and traditional face-to-face education.
  • To examine the factors influencing student engagement in online learning environments.
  • To assess the effectiveness of different instructional methods employed in online education.
  • To identify challenges and opportunities associated with online education and suggest recommendations for improvement.

3. Methodology

3.1 Study Design

This research will utilize a mixed-methods approach to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. The study will include the following components:

3.2 Participants

The research will involve undergraduate students from two universities, one offering online education and the other providing face-to-face instruction. A total of 500 students (250 from each university) will be selected randomly to participate in the study.

3.3 Data Collection

The research will employ the following data collection methods:

  • Quantitative: Pre- and post-assessments will be conducted to measure students’ learning outcomes. Data on student demographics and academic performance will also be collected from university records.
  • Qualitative: Focus group discussions and individual interviews will be conducted with students to gather their perceptions and experiences regarding online education.

3.4 Data Analysis

Quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical software, employing descriptive statistics, t-tests, and regression analysis. Qualitative data will be transcribed, coded, and analyzed thematically to identify recurring patterns and themes.

4. Ethical Considerations

The study will adhere to ethical guidelines, ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of participants. Informed consent will be obtained, and participants will have the right to withdraw from the study at any time.

5. Significance and Expected Outcomes

This research will contribute to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the impact of online education on student learning outcomes. The findings will help educational institutions and policymakers make informed decisions about incorporating online learning methods and improving the quality of online education. Moreover, the study will identify potential challenges and opportunities related to online education and offer recommendations for enhancing student engagement and overall learning outcomes.

6. Timeline

The proposed research will be conducted over a period of 12 months, including data collection, analysis, and report writing.

The estimated budget for this research includes expenses related to data collection, software licenses, participant compensation, and research assistance. A detailed budget breakdown will be provided in the final research plan.

8. Conclusion

This research proposal aims to investigate the impact of online education on student learning outcomes through a comparative study with traditional face-to-face instruction. By exploring various dimensions of online education, this research will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and challenges associated with online learning. The findings will contribute to the ongoing discourse on educational practices and help shape future strategies for maximizing student learning outcomes in online education settings.

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200 Research Proposal Topics Across Key Disciplines

Research Proposal Topics

A research proposal involves planning out a project you're curious about in your field. It outlines what you plan to study, how you'll go about it, and why it matters.

The problem, though, is what research proposal topic to pick, as there are so many to choose from, with :

  • Fields like AI are getting more and more popular among students, with the AI market set to grow to $310 billion by 2026.
  • Politics is another dynamic area, with ongoing shifts in global power structures, international relations, and policy-making.
  • And for those of you passionate about the environment, the renewable energy sector could see investments of up to $1.97 trillion by 2030.

These fields provide excellent opportunities for research and open doors to exciting career paths.

In this guide, you’ll discover a broad selection of research proposal topic ideas that cover everything from international relations to the impacts of global economic policies. Each one comes with short pointers on how to develop it into a solid proposal.

And if you find yourself needing a bit more guidance in writing a research proposal , don’t hesitate to reach out to DoMyEssay. We’re ready to help you polish your proposal and get set for some serious research.

how to choose a research proposal topic

Best Research Proposal Topics

Political science research proposal topics.

Here are some engaging political science topic ideas, with tips on how to approach them and examples to guide your research process:

  • How Does Social Media Influence Political Campaigns? In this topic, l ook into how politicians like Obama and Trump used Twitter and Facebook to shape voter behavior and campaign strategies.
  • What Are the Implications of Voter ID Laws on Election Outcomes? Compare how strict voter ID laws in the U.S. affect who shows up to vote and examine how it changes election results.
  • Can Decentralized Platforms Improve Government Transparency? Check out how Estonia uses blockchain to make government actions more transparent and reduce corruption.
  • What Is the Impact of Globalization on National Sovereignty? This proposal explores how the EU and Brexit challenge the balance between working together globally and keeping national control.
  • How Effective Are International Sanctions in Influencing National Policies? Look into whether sanctions on countries like Iran and North Korea actually make them change their policies.
  • What Role Does Propaganda Play in Modern Warfare? See how Russia uses state-run media during war conflicts, like in Ukraine, to influence public opinion at home and abroad.
  • Can Democracy Be Exported? A Study of Western Influence in Non-Western Countries For this research, study whether U.S. efforts to promote democracy in places like Iraq and Afghanistan have worked or faced challenges.
  • How Do Migration Policies Affect International Relations? Look at how the EU-Turkey migration deal has impacted relationships between countries and regional stability.
  • What Are the Consequences of Political Corruption on Economic Development? Analyze how corruption in countries like Brazil or Nigeria slows down economic growth and reduces public trust.
  • How Do Climate Change Policies Differ Across Political Systems? For this topic, compare how democracies like the U.S. and authoritarian regimes like China approach climate change and global agreements like the Paris Accord.

Computer Science Project Proposal Topics

Here are some solid topic ideas to help you get started, from AI innovations to the latest in cybersecurity:

  • How Can Machine Learning Improve Predictive Analytics? See how machine learning, like Netflix’s recommendation system or fraud detection in banks, improves predictions in finance and healthcare.
  • What Are the Ethical Concerns Surrounding AI in Decision-Making? Explore ethical issues in AI, such as biases in hiring algorithms or predictive policing.
  • How Does Blockchain Enhance Data Security? For this proposal, Check out how blockchain secures data in banking and healthcare, protecting transactions and patient records.
  • What Are the Challenges of Implementing Quantum Computing? Look into the practical challenges of quantum computing, like error rates and extreme conditions needed for it to work.
  • How Can Augmented Reality Be Used in Education? Look into how augmented reality (AR) is used in classrooms, for instance, how AR apps can bring historical events to life or help medical students visualize complex anatomy.
  • What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Cloud Computing? For this research, study how companies like Netflix use cloud computing, weighing the benefits of global access against security risks.
  • How Can Natural Language Processing Improve Human-Computer Interaction? See how NLP tools like Siri and Alexa make technology easier to interact with by better understanding human language.
  • What Role Does Cybersecurity Play in Protecting Critical Infrastructure? Look into how cybersecurity is essential for protecting power grids and water supplies, using examples like the Stuxnet attack on Iran's nuclear facilities.
  • How Can Big Data Analytics Drive Business Decisions? For this topic, Examine how companies like Amazon use big data to make smarter decisions, from product recommendations to supply chain management.
  • What Are the Applications of Robotics in Healthcare? Check out how robots are revolutionizing healthcare, from surgical robots like the Da Vinci system to robots that assist with hospital patient care.

International Relations Research Proposal Ideas

These international relations research topic ideas will help you explore critical global issues, from trade agreements to climate change impacts:

  • Research on How Trade Agreements Influence Diplomatic Relations Look at how trade deals like NAFTA impact relationships between countries, affecting both cooperation and conflicts.
  • What Is the Role of the United Nations in Conflict Resolution? Investigate how the UN intervenes in conflicts, such as the Syrian civil war, and assess its effectiveness in maintaining peace.
  • How Do Economic Sanctions Affect International Relations? Check out how sanctions on countries like Venezuela or Russia change their relationships with other nations.
  • Research on What Role Media Plays in Shaping International Relations Explore how news coverage shapes public opinion and diplomatic relations, especially in conflicts like those in the Middle East.
  • What Are the Implications of Brexit on the European Union? See how Brexit has reshaped the EU’s political and economic landscape, affecting ties with both members and non-members.
  • How Does Migration Affect International Relations? Study how migration, like the flow of people from the Middle East to Europe, influences diplomatic ties between nations.
  • Research on the Impact of Climate Change on Global Security Look at how issues like rising sea levels and resource shortages are becoming key concerns in global security.
  • How Do Peacekeeping Missions Influence International Stability? Explore how UN peacekeeping efforts in places like Africa or the Balkans help — or don’t help—maintain stability.
  • What Are the Challenges of Nuclear Non-Proliferation? Check out the difficulties in stopping the spread of nuclear weapons, especially in countries like North Korea.
  • Research on How Foreign Direct Investment Influences International Relations? Study how investments by multinational companies in other countries affect diplomatic ties and local economies.

Economics Research Proposal Topics

These economics research ideas will help you explore key issues in the field, including the impact of interest rates on economic growth and the effects of globalization:

  • Research on How Interest Rates Affect Economic Growth See how changes in interest rates, set by central banks like the Federal Reserve, impact the economy and what people spend.
  • What Are the Economic Impacts of Income Inequality? Look at how the gap between the rich and poor affects a country’s economic stability, using examples from the United States.
  • How Does Tax Policy Influence Business Investment? Explore how different tax policies, like corporate tax cuts, either encourage or discourage businesses from investing.
  • What Are the Effects of Globalization on Developing Economies? Study how globalization impacts the growth of emerging markets in countries like India and Brazil.
  • Proposal on How Exchange Rates Affect International Trade Check out how changes in exchange rates, like the value of the U.S. dollar against the euro, affect trade between countries.
  • What Role Does Government Spending Play in Economic Recovery? Look into how government spending helps boost the economy during tough times, focusing on examples like the 2008 financial crisis.
  • How Does Unemployment Affect Consumer Spending? Explore how rising or falling unemployment rates impact how much people spend and the overall health of the economy.
  • What Are the Economic Impacts of Automation? See how automation in industries like manufacturing is changing job markets and productivity.
  • Research on How Trade Policies Influence Global Supply Chains Examine how trade policies, like tariffs or free trade agreements, affect how goods are produced and moved around the world.
  • What Are the Effects of Minimum Wage Increases on Small Businesses? Look into how raising the minimum wage impacts small businesses, both the good and the bad.

Business Research Proposal Topic Ideas

These business research questions cover a range of topic ideas, including leadership styles, customer retention, and the impact of artificial intelligence on business operations:

  • Proposal on How Leadership Styles Affect Employee Productivity Explore how different leadership approaches, like transformational or authoritarian styles, impact how productive employees are.
  • Proposal on the Best Strategies for Customer Retention Look into the most effective ways businesses keep customers coming back, like loyalty programs or personalized marketing.
  • Proposal on How Does Corporate Social Responsibility Influence Brand Image Study how a company’s CSR activities, like environmental initiatives, shape its reputation and customer loyalty.
  • Proposal on the Impact of E-commerce on Traditional Retail Businesses See how the rise of online shopping is changing the landscape for traditional brick-and-mortar stores.
  • Proposal on How Startups Successfully Attract Investors Examine the strategies that help startups secure funding, such as pitch decks, business models, and networking.
  • Proposal on the Effects of Remote Work on Team Collaboration Look into how working from home changes the way teams communicate and work together, both positively and negatively.
  • Proposal on How Digital Marketing Influences Consumer Behavior Explore how online ads, social media, and SEO shape the way people shop and make decisions.
  • Proposal on the Challenges of Managing a Multigenerational Workforce Study the difficulties and benefits of leading a team that includes employees from different age groups, like Baby Boomers and Millennials.
  • Proposal on How Companies Use Data Analytics to Improve Decision-Making Check out how businesses leverage data to make better decisions, from marketing strategies to product development.
  • Proposal on the Role Innovation Plays in Business Success Look at how companies that prioritize innovation, like Apple or Tesla, achieve long-term success.

Management Research Proposal Topics

These interesting research paper topics in management will help you dive into key areas like leadership, team dynamics, human resource management, and organizational culture:

  • How Does Leadership Style Influence Employee Motivation? See how democratic leadership at companies like Google boosts motivation compared to more top-down approaches.
  • What Are the Best Practices for Managing Remote Teams? Look into how tools like Zoom help managers keep remote teams connected and engaged.
  • How Does Organizational Culture Affect Employee Satisfaction? Study how Google’s creative culture leads to higher employee satisfaction and engagement.
  • What Are the Challenges of Change Management in Organizations? Examine how Microsoft successfully managed its shift to cloud computing, overcoming employee resistance.
  • How Do Team Dynamics Impact Project Success? Explore how Agile teams in tech, with open communication, lead to successful project outcomes.
  • What Is the Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Leadership? See how emotionally intelligent leaders improve team morale by responding to employees’ needs.
  • How Do Employee Incentive Programs Influence Productivity? Check out how Amazon’s performance bonuses boost productivity and motivation among employees.
  • What Are the Key Factors in Managing Organizational Conflict? Study how IBM uses mediation to resolve conflicts and maintain a positive work environment.
  • How Does Diversity in the Workplace Affect Team Performance? Examine how diverse teams at companies like Unilever bring in varied perspectives and improve performance.
  • What Are the Benefits of Mentorship Programs in the Workplace? See how mentorship at General Electric helps junior employees grow and contributes to company success.

MBA Research Proposal Topic Ideas

These MBA research topics for students will help you explore critical areas in business management, from strategic planning to the role of information technology in business:

  • How Does Strategic Planning Affect Business Success? Explore how effective strategic planning helps companies like Apple achieve long-term success.
  • What Are the Key Drivers of Innovation in Startups? Look into how startups like Airbnb foster innovation through a culture of creativity and risk-taking.
  • How Do Financial Management Practices Impact Company Growth? Examine how good financial management helped companies like Amazon scale quickly.
  • What Is the Role of Leadership in Organizational Change? Study how leaders at companies like Microsoft successfully manage major organizational changes.
  • How Does Brand Management Influence Consumer Loyalty? See how strong brand management at companies like Nike keeps customers coming back.
  • What Are the Effects of Corporate Governance on Business Performance? Look into how strong corporate governance at companies like Tesla influences business outcomes.
  • How Does Digital Transformation Drive Business Growth? Explore how companies like Netflix use digital transformation to stay competitive and grow.
  • What Is the Impact of Marketing Strategies on Business Revenue? Study how innovative marketing strategies boost revenue at companies like Coca-Cola.
  • How Does Supply Chain Management Contribute to Business Efficiency? Check out how efficient supply chain management helps companies like Walmart reduce costs and improve efficiency.
  • What Are the Best Practices for Risk Management in Businesses? Look into how companies like Goldman Sachs manage risks to protect their assets.

Business Project Proposal Topics

These business project proposal topics focus on how various strategies and tools can influence academic performance in a business context, offering a fresh perspective for your typical research proposal:

  • How Do Mergers and Acquisitions Influence Market Position? Examine how mergers, like Disney acquiring Pixar, strengthen a company’s position in the market.
  • What Is the Role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Brand Image? See how CSR efforts at companies like Starbucks improve their brand image and customer loyalty.
  • How Does Talent Management Affect Organizational Performance? Explore how effective talent management practices help companies like Google maintain a high-performance culture.
  • What Are the Impacts of Globalization on Business Operations? Look into how globalization affects the way companies like McDonald's operate worldwide.
  • How Do Consumer Behavior Trends Influence Marketing Tactics? Study how understanding consumer behavior trends helps companies like Amazon tailor their marketing efforts.
  • What Are the Challenges of Implementing Sustainability in Business? Examine how companies like IKEA navigate the challenges of integrating sustainability into their business models.
  • How Does Financial Technology (FinTech) Impact Traditional Banking? Explore how the rise of FinTech companies like PayPal is changing the traditional banking landscape.
  • What Is the Effect of Leadership Styles on Company Culture? See how leadership styles at companies like Google shape their unique company cultures.
  • How Do Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems Improve Business Performance? Look into how CRM systems, like Salesforce, help businesses manage customer relationships and boost performance.
  • What Are the Benefits of E-commerce for Small Businesses? Explore how e-commerce platforms help small businesses reach a wider audience and grow.

Sociology Research Proposal Ideas

These sociology research project ideas will help you explore key social issues and phenomena, offering a strong foundation for your research:

  • How Does Social Media Affect Adolescent Mental Health? For this topic, explore how platforms like Instagram and TikTok impact the mental health of teenagers, focusing on issues like anxiety and self-esteem.
  • What Is the Role of Family Structure in Child Development? Study how different family structures, such as single-parent households or extended families, influence a child's emotional and social development.
  • How Does Socioeconomic Status Affect Educational Opportunities? Examine how a family's income level influences access to quality education and impacts long-term academic and career success.
  • What Are the Social Impacts of Urbanization? For this topic, look into how the rapid growth of cities affects community relationships, crime rates, and access to resources like housing and healthcare.
  • How Does Gender Stereotyping Influence Career Choices? Explore how traditional gender roles and stereotypes shape career decisions and job opportunities for men and women.
  • What Is the Effect of Cultural Diversity on Workplace Dynamics? Study how a diverse workforce, including different ethnicities and cultures, influences teamwork, communication, and overall workplace harmony.
  • How Do Social Movements Drive Legislative Change? For this topic, examine how movements like Black Lives Matter or #MeToo have influenced changes in laws and policies at both local and national levels.
  • What Are the Causes and Consequences of Homelessness? Look into the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty or mental health issues, and explore the social and economic effects on communities.
  • How Does Media Representation Affect Public Perception of Minorities? Study how the portrayal of ethnic and racial minorities in news and entertainment media shapes public attitudes and beliefs.
  • What Role Does Religion Play in Social Integration? For this topic, explore how religious beliefs and practices help immigrants and other minority groups integrate into new communities.

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how to choose research proposal topic

Psychology Research Proposal Topics

Choose one of these psychology research topic ideas to explore the fascinating ways our minds work, from how childhood experiences shape our adult lives to the impact of technology on our attention spans:

  • How Does Childhood Trauma Affect Adult Relationships? Explore how experiences of trauma in childhood influence relationship patterns and attachment styles in adulthood.
  • What Is the Impact of Social Media on Self-Esteem? Examine how platforms like Instagram and Facebook affect self-esteem, particularly in teenagers and young adults.
  • How Do Sleep Patterns Affect Cognitive Function? For this topic, study the relationship between sleep quality and cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, and problem-solving.
  • What Are the Psychological Effects of Chronic Stress? Look into how prolonged exposure to stress impacts mental health, including the development of anxiety and depression.
  • How Does Positive Reinforcement Influence Behavior Change? Explore how positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards, are used in therapy to encourage behavior modification.
  • What Is the Role of Genetics in Mental Health Disorders? For this topic, examine the influence of genetic factors on the development of mental health disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
  • How Do Parenting Styles Affect Child Development? Study how different parenting approaches, such as authoritative or permissive styles, impact a child's emotional and social growth.
  • What Are the Effects of Mindfulness Practices on Anxiety? Look into how mindfulness techniques, such as meditation, reduce anxiety and improve overall mental well-being.
  • How Does Peer Pressure Influence Adolescent Decision-Making? For this topic, explore how the desire to fit in with peers affects the choices and behaviors of teenagers.
  • What Is the Relationship Between Nutrition and Mental Health? Examine how diet and nutrition influence mental health, including the effects of specific nutrients on mood and cognitive function.

Chemistry Research Proposal Topic Ideas

These chemistry research topic ideas explore scientific advancements while addressing the ethical considerations that arise in this dynamic field:

  • How Can Green Chemistry Make Manufacturing Cleaner? Explore how using less harmful substances in manufacturing processes reduces environmental damage and improves safety.
  • What Ethical Questions Come Up with Synthetic Biology? For this topic, discuss the concerns related to creating organisms that could outcompete natural species or be used irresponsibly.
  • How Does Handling Chemical Waste Affect Our Health? Examine specific cases where improper chemical waste disposal has led to community health crises, like in Flint, Michigan.
  • What Are the Ethical Dilemmas in Creating Sustainable Energy? Consider the trade-offs between developing large-scale solar farms that may disrupt ecosystems and the need to reduce fossil fuel use.
  • Is Nanotechnology Safe in Medical Treatments? For this topic, investigate the potential long-term effects of nanomaterials in the body, focusing on their use in cancer treatment.
  • Should We Test Chemicals on Animals? Debate the necessity of animal testing in the cosmetics industry versus the push for cruelty-free alternatives and synthetic testing methods.
  • How Harmful Are Pesticides to People and the Planet? Look at studies linking pesticide exposure to health issues in farming communities and their effects on local wildlife.
  • What's Wrong with Developing Chemical Weapons? For this topic, discuss the international laws against chemical weapons and the ethical implications of their potential use in warfare.
  • Can Biodegradable Plastics Help Us Fight Pollution? Explore successful examples of biodegradable plastics in use today and their effectiveness in reducing plastic waste in oceans.
  • How Ethical Is the Drug Development Process? Evaluate the transparency in clinical trials for new medications, including how results are reported and who benefits from the findings.

History Research Proposal Ideas

These history research proposal ideas offer a range of topics from ancient civilizations to modern international conflicts:

  • How Did Ancient Trade Routes Shape Early Civilizations? Explore how the Silk Road and other trade networks influenced the cultural and economic development of ancient societies.
  • What Were the Social Impacts of the Industrial Revolution? Investigate how the Industrial Revolution transformed class structures, urbanization, and family dynamics in Europe and America.
  • How Did Colonialism Affect Indigenous Cultures? Examine the long-term effects of European colonialism on native populations in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
  • What Roles Did Women Play in World War II? Study the diverse contributions of women during WWII, from factory work to serving in armed forces across different countries.
  • How Did the Cold War Influence Global Politics? Look into the geopolitical strategies and conflicts driven by the Cold War, including proxy wars and espionage between the USSR and the USA.
  • What Were the Major Causes and Consequences of the American Civil War? Analyze the key factors that led to the Civil War and its impact on American society and politics.
  • How Have Migration Patterns Affected Cultural Identities? Explore how significant migration waves, such as the Great Migration in the US or the post-WWII movements in Europe, reshaped cultural identities.
  • What Are the Historical Roots of Modern Terrorism? Investigate the evolution of terrorism, tracing its historical roots and how it has transformed over the centuries.
  • How Did the Renaissance Change European Art and Thought? Study how the Renaissance period influenced art, science, and philosophy, marking a shift from medieval to modern thinking.
  • What Was the Impact of the Discovery of the New World on Europe? Examine how the discovery of the Americas led to economic and social changes in European societies.

Criminal Justice Research Proposal Topics

Check out these interesting research proposal topic ideas in criminal justice that cover everything from community policing to the intricacies of forensic science:

  • How Effective Are Community Policing Strategies? Investigate how community policing initiatives like neighborhood patrols and police-community forums reduce crime and build trust.
  • What Are the Impacts of Drug Decriminalization on Society? Explore how policies like those in Portugal have affected crime rates, addiction levels, and overall public health.
  • How Does Racial Profiling Affect Trust in Law Enforcement? Examine the impact of racial profiling on community trust and what it means for police reform efforts.
  • What Role Does Forensic Science Play in Solving Crimes? Study the breakthroughs in forensic science, such as DNA profiling, and their role in cracking complex cases.
  • How Do Mandatory Sentencing Laws Impact Prison Overcrowding? Look into the link between mandatory sentencing and the rise in prison populations, and discuss alternatives.
  • What Are the Challenges of Rehabilitating Ex-Offenders? Investigate the hurdles ex-offenders face when returning to society and how effective current rehabilitation programs are.
  • How Does Media Coverage Influence Public Perception of Crime? Explore the role media plays in shaping people’s perceptions of crime, including the effects of high-profile crime reporting.
  • What Strategies Are Effective in Reducing Juvenile Delinquency? Study various interventions aimed at curbing juvenile delinquency, focusing on their success rates across different settings.
  • What Is the Impact of Cybercrime on National Security? Analyze how cybercrime poses threats to national security and what measures are effective in countering these risks.
  • How Are Correctional Facilities Implementing Mental Health Services? Examine how prisons are providing mental health services and the effects on inmate behavior and recidivism.

Philosophy Research Proposal Topics

These philosophy research proposal topics cover complex ethical, metaphysical, and social questions, providing a comprehensive literature review for each study:

  • What Really Makes Up Our Reality? Look at different philosophical theories about what’s truly real, weighing up ideas from materialism to idealism.
  • Free Will and Fate: Can They Coexist? Discuss how the concept of free will stands up against the idea of a predetermined universe and what this means for our personal responsibility.
  • Navigating the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence Dive into the challenges and potential repercussions of developing AI technologies, considering both the benefits and ethical dilemmas.
  • The Interplay Between Language and Thinking Check out how the language we use might actually shape the way we think, influencing everything from our simplest decisions to our biggest.
  • Intuition’s Place in Philosophy Analyze the importance of gut feelings in philosophical reasoning, seeing how they stack up against more structured approaches like logic and evidence.
  • Identity Through Time: Who Are We Really? Examine how we remain the same or change over time, looking into theories that use memory, physical continuity, or other criteria to define personal identity.
  • Unpacking the Foundations of Human Rights Explore the fundamental theories that form the basis of human rights, comparing ideas like natural rights against constructs like legal positivism.
  • Learning Virtue: Is It Possible? Investigate whether virtues are innate traits we’re born with or if they can be learned and cultivated over time.
  • Decoding the Basis of Moral Decisions Delve into the roots of how we make moral choices, contrasting approaches like consequentialism, deontological ethics, and virtue ethics.
  • How Aesthetics Shape Our Art Experience Examine how different theories of beauty and art influence our appreciation and understanding of artistic works across cultures and eras.

Medical Research Proposal Topic Ideas

Check out these medical research proposal topic ideas designed for successful research, offering insights into various health challenges and innovations:

  • Improving Early Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease Investigate new biomarkers or imaging techniques that could help doctors identify Alzheimer's earlier, enhancing treatment outcomes.
  • Evaluating the Efficacy of Telemedicine Study how telemedicine impacts patient care quality, especially in rural areas or during public health crises.
  • Developing Next-Generation Vaccines for Emerging Viruses Research the latest technologies in vaccine development, such as mRNA platforms, to combat newly emerging viral threats.
  • Exploring Non-Opioid Pain Management Alternatives Examine the potential of alternative pain management therapies, like TENS or acupuncture, in reducing reliance on opioid prescriptions.
  • Impact of Nutritional Interventions on Chronic Diseases Analyze how specific dietary changes can prevent or manage chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
  • Investigating the Role of Genetics in Cancer Treatment Look into how genetic profiling of tumors can lead to more personalized and effective cancer therapies.
  • Assessing Mental Health Interventions in Schools Evaluate the effectiveness of mental health programs in improving student well-being and academic performance in educational settings.
  • Studying the Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 Research the prolonged health impacts of COVID-19 to understand and manage the long-term care needs of survivors.
  • Advancing Techniques in Minimally Invasive Surgery Explore innovations in minimally invasive surgical techniques that reduce recovery time and improve patient outcomes.
  • Understanding the Mechanisms of Antibiotic Resistance Delve into how bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics and what new approaches could be effective in combating resistant strains.

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how to choose research proposal topic

Biology Research Proposal Topics

Tackle these biology research proposal topics that address various research problems, from ecological dynamics to molecular genetics. Prepare to uncover fascinating insights into the living world:

  • What Genetic Factors Contribute to Longer and Healthier Lives? Which specific genes help some people live longer, and how could we use genetic engineering to extend healthy lifespans for everyone?
  • What's the Real Effect of Microplastics on Marine Life? How are tiny plastic particles affecting ocean ecosystems, and what steps can we take to minimize their impact?
  • Can CRISPR Revolutionize the Way We Treat Diseases and Grow Food? How is CRISPR technology changing the game in medicine and agriculture, and what are the potential benefits and risks?
  • Which Coral Reef Restoration Techniques Really Work? What methods are proving most successful at bringing coral reefs back to life, and how can we apply these solutions on a global scale?
  • How Are Birds Adapting to Climate Change? What changes are birds making to their migration and breeding behaviors in response to climate change, and what does this tell us about their survival?
  • How Does Our Gut Bacteria Affect Our Overall Health? What role does the gut microbiome play in things like immune response and disease susceptibility, and how can we manipulate it for better health?
  • What Works Best for Saving Endangered Species? Which conservation strategies have been most successful in preserving endangered species, and why?
  • How Can Bioinformatics Prevent the Next Global Pandemic? In what ways is bioinformatics crucial in identifying potential viral outbreaks and developing strategies to prevent widespread disease?
  • How Do Plants Handle Extreme Environmental Stress? What genetic and physiological strategies do plants use to survive extreme conditions like drought and high salinity?
  • How Is Urban Expansion Impacting Local Wildlife? What happens to animal populations when cities expand, and how can urban planning help mitigate negative effects on biodiversity?

Environmental Research Proposal Ideas

Check out these environmental research proposal topics that use advanced research methods to solve our planet's pressing problems, offering ways to make a real difference:

  • Tracking Plastic Pollution in Our Oceans: What Works Best? Explore the latest tech and methods that can help us better monitor and quantify plastic waste in marine environments.
  • Making Urban Green Spaces Wildlife Friendly How can we design and manage city parks to maximize their benefits for local wildlife and biodiversity?
  • Restoring Damaged Landscapes Effectively What are the best ways to bring degraded ecosystems back to life, and how can native species play a role in this process?
  • Saving Water in Agriculture Without Losing Crops Can new technologies and smart irrigation practices help farmers use less water without cutting down on crop yields?
  • New Gadgets for Cleaner Air: Are They Up to the Task? Look at the newest tools for monitoring air quality—are they accurate enough to help us clean up our cities?
  • Assessing Renewable Energy's Impact on Wildlife How can we better understand the effects of wind farms and solar panels on local animal populations?
  • Citizen Science: A Game Changer for Environmental Research? Could having community members help gather data boost our understanding of environmental changes?
  • The Long-term Trouble with Microplastics in Freshwater What happens to microplastics in lakes and rivers, and how do they affect the aquatic life there?
  • Using Bioengineering to Tackle Invasive Species Could genetic modifications help us control or eliminate invasive species without causing more problems?
  • Forecasting Climate Change Effects on Coastal Areas What new methods can help us predict how rising sea levels will affect coastal regions and find ways to lessen the impact?

Research Proposal Topics on Development Studies

Explore these research proposal topics on development studies, each designed to spark deep investigation into social, economic, and environmental advancements:

  • Research on How Microfinance Helps Rural Communities Escape Poverty Take a close look at microfinance programs and their real impact on rural poverty. Can these small loans create big changes for the better?
  • Can Schools Narrow the Socio-economic Divide? Investigate whether targeted educational programs are effective at leveling the playing field across diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
  • Can Tech Innovations Transform Farming in Developing Nations? Explore how introducing advanced agricultural tech might revolutionize farming in less developed areas, possibly making food production more efficient and sustainable.
  • Urban Expansion: Threat or Opportunity for Traditional Communities? Examine the effects of city growth on traditional communities, focusing on changes in their lifestyle, economy, and cultural preservation.
  • Public Health Programs in Developing Countries: Do They Deliver? Assess the effectiveness of public health initiatives in developing countries. Are these programs reaching the people who need them most and making a health difference?
  • Research on The Ripple Effects of Migration on Home Countries Explore how the departure of migrants impacts the economies and communities they leave behind, and what this means for long-term development.
  • Rebuilding After Conflict: Is International Aid the Answer? Look at the role of international aid in post-conflict reconstruction. How well does it work in rebuilding societies and restoring stability?
  • What Makes a City’s Development Sustainable? Review various global cities known for their sustainability to understand which strategies are most effective in balancing growth with environmental stewardship.
  • Global Trade and Local Markets in Africa: A Double-Edged Sword? Analyze how international trade affects local economies in Africa, highlighting both the benefits and the challenges it brings.
  • Water Management in Dry Places: Finding Solutions Dig into the methods and technologies used in arid regions to manage and conserve water. What works, what doesn’t, and why?

Qualitative Research Proposal Topics

These qualitative research proposal topics uncover deep insights into human behavior and social patterns. Each proposal topic is chosen to encourage thoughtful exploration and rich discussion:

  • Exploring Community Resilience Through Personal Stories Take a closer look at how personal experiences and individual stories reflect the broader economic and social resilience of communities facing change.
  • The Impact of Social Media on Personal Identity Explore how people shape and express their identities using social media, and the effects this has on their real-world relationships and self-perception.
  • Cultural Influence on Healthcare Choices Investigate how people's cultural backgrounds influence their healthcare decisions, focusing on the balance between traditional practices and modern medicine.
  • Workplace Environment and Employee Mental Health For this topic, study how different workplace environments impact mental health, identifying what factors contribute to a supportive or harmful work culture.
  • Education’s Role in Social Mobility Look into how education serves as a pathway for social mobility, focusing on stories from individuals across various socio-economic backgrounds.
  • Effects of Urbanization on Community Bonds Explore how urbanization impacts community relationships and social networks, and what this means for social cohesion in urban settings.
  • Changing Gender Roles in Family Dynamics Research how evolving gender roles are reshaping family structures and dynamics, affecting everything from daily responsibilities to interpersonal relationships.
  • Media's Influence on Public Views of Social Issues Analyze how media portrayals shape public opinions on significant issues like immigration and climate change, using specific media examples.
  • Engagement of Youth in Politics through Cultural Trends For this topic, discover how cultural trends influence political engagement among young people, identifying which platforms and issues resonate most with them.
  • Contemporary Art as a Reflection of Societal Changes Examine how contemporary artists use their work to comment on and engage with shifts in society, highlighting specific pieces that have stirred public conversation.

Quantitative Research Proposal Ideas

These quantitative research proposal topics are perfect for exploring the numbers behind important issues, from consumer spending to environmental policies:

  • What Factors Drive Consumer Spending in a Digital Economy? Look at what really makes people spend money online, using data from e-commerce platforms to spot the trends and patterns that matter most.
  • How Effective Are Public Health Campaigns in Reducing Smoking Rates? Explore how well anti-smoking campaigns are working by comparing smoking rates across different regions and demographics.
  • Does Access to Higher Education Improve Economic Mobility? See how access to college impacts a person’s ability to move up the economic ladder, using income data to find out if education really makes a difference.
  • How Do Workplace Diversity Programs Affect Employee Productivity? Dive into how diversity initiatives at work might boost productivity, by analyzing performance data from companies with different levels of diversity.
  • What Are the Economic Impacts of Minimum Wage Increases? For this topic, examine what happens when the minimum wage goes up, using economic data to see how it affects jobs and business growth in various regions.
  • How Does Social Media Influence Political Participation? Study the link between social media use and getting involved in politics, using data to explore how online activity relates to voter turnout.
  • Are Renewable Energy Policies Effective in Reducing Carbon Emissions? Check out whether policies pushing for renewable energy are actually cutting down on carbon emissions, using environmental data to track changes over time.
  • What Are the Patterns of Income Inequality in Urban vs. Rural Areas? Compare income inequality between cities and rural areas, using census data to understand what’s driving the differences.
  • How Does Physical Activity Influence Academic Performance in Students? Look into how staying active might help students do better in school, using data from school performance reports to see if there’s a real connection.
  • What Factors Predict Job Satisfaction Among Employees? For this topic, figure out what really makes people happy at work by analyzing survey data on job satisfaction, focusing on things like work-life balance, pay, and job security.

Easy Research Proposal Topics for Students

These simple research proposal topics are perfect for students who want to explore important ideas without getting overwhelmed.

  • How Does Social Media Impact Study Habits? Explore how platforms like Instagram or TikTok influence the way students manage their study time, using survey data from your peers.
  • What Factors Affect High School Graduation Rates? Look into the key reasons some students graduate on time while others don’t, analyzing data from local schools or national statistics.
  • Does Listening to Music Help Students Focus? Study whether listening to music while studying actually improves concentration, using feedback and test results from students who try it.
  • How Do School Uniforms Affect Student Behavior? Investigate whether wearing uniforms in school has any real impact on how students behave, using case studies from schools that have introduced them.
  • What Are the Benefits of Homework for Academic Success? For this topic, examine whether doing homework regularly leads to better grades and understanding of the material, based on student performance data.
  • How Does Class Size Affect Student Learning? See if smaller class sizes really make a difference in how well students learn, comparing test scores from different classroom settings.
  • Are Online Classes as Effective as Traditional Classroom Learning? Study the effectiveness of online learning compared to in-person classes, focusing on student performance and engagement.
  • How Does Sleep Affect Academic Performance? Look into how much sleep students are getting and whether it’s linked to better grades, using surveys and school performance data.
  • What Role Does Parental Involvement Play in Student Success? Explore how parents’ involvement in their children’s education affects their academic achievements, using interviews and data from schools.
  • How Does Peer Pressure Influence Student Choices? For this topic, investigate how much peer pressure affects decisions like studying, attending classes, or participating in extracurricular activities, using survey data from your classmates.

The research topic ideas we've covered highlight some of the most popular and relevant areas for students today. Whether you're looking into how social media influences political campaigns or the role of leadership styles in boosting employee productivity, these proposal ideas offer a strong starting point for your academic journey.

If you’re still feeling stuck or need a bit more guidance, DoMyEssay is here to help. Our team of experts can assist you in crafting a research proposal that truly shines. Check out our research proposal writing service for more support.

  • Renewable Energy ETF to Snatch Up Today. (n.d.). The Globe and Mail. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/stocks/HCLN-T/pressreleases/10993027/1-renewable-energy-etf-to-snatch-up-today/
  • Artificial Intelligence Mega Trends. (n.d.). Markets and Markets. https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/mega_trends/artificial_intelligence

how to choose research proposal topic

Strategies for Selecting a Research Topic

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Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Assignments

  • Annotated Bibliography
  • Analyzing a Scholarly Journal Article
  • Group Presentations
  • Dealing with Nervousness
  • Using Visual Aids
  • Grading Someone Else's Paper
  • Types of Structured Group Activities
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  • Multiple Book Review Essay
  • Reviewing Collected Works
  • Writing a Case Analysis Paper
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  • About Informed Consent
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  • Writing a Reflective Paper
  • Writing a Research Proposal
  • Generative AI and Writing
  • Acknowledgments

The goal of a research proposal is twofold: to present and justify the need to study a research problem and to present the practical ways in which the proposed study should be conducted. The design elements and procedures for conducting research are governed by standards of the predominant discipline in which the problem resides, therefore, the guidelines for research proposals are more exacting and less formal than a general project proposal. Research proposals contain extensive literature reviews. They must provide persuasive evidence that a need exists for the proposed study. In addition to providing a rationale, a proposal describes detailed methodology for conducting the research consistent with requirements of the professional or academic field and a statement on anticipated outcomes and benefits derived from the study's completion.

Krathwohl, David R. How to Prepare a Dissertation Proposal: Suggestions for Students in Education and the Social and Behavioral Sciences . Syracuse, NY: Syracuse University Press, 2005.

How to Approach Writing a Research Proposal

Your professor may assign the task of writing a research proposal for the following reasons:

  • Develop your skills in thinking about and designing a comprehensive research study;
  • Learn how to conduct a comprehensive review of the literature to determine that the research problem has not been adequately addressed or has been answered ineffectively and, in so doing, become better at locating pertinent scholarship related to your topic;
  • Improve your general research and writing skills;
  • Practice identifying the logical steps that must be taken to accomplish one's research goals;
  • Critically review, examine, and consider the use of different methods for gathering and analyzing data related to the research problem; and,
  • Nurture a sense of inquisitiveness within yourself and to help see yourself as an active participant in the process of conducting scholarly research.

A proposal should contain all the key elements involved in designing a completed research study, with sufficient information that allows readers to assess the validity and usefulness of your proposed study. The only elements missing from a research proposal are the findings of the study and your analysis of those findings. Finally, an effective proposal is judged on the quality of your writing and, therefore, it is important that your proposal is coherent, clear, and compelling.

Regardless of the research problem you are investigating and the methodology you choose, all research proposals must address the following questions:

  • What do you plan to accomplish? Be clear and succinct in defining the research problem and what it is you are proposing to investigate.
  • Why do you want to do the research? In addition to detailing your research design, you also must conduct a thorough review of the literature and provide convincing evidence that it is a topic worthy of in-depth study. A successful research proposal must answer the "So What?" question.
  • How are you going to conduct the research? Be sure that what you propose is doable. If you're having difficulty formulating a research problem to propose investigating, go here for strategies in developing a problem to study.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Failure to be concise . A research proposal must be focused and not be "all over the map" or diverge into unrelated tangents without a clear sense of purpose.
  • Failure to cite landmark works in your literature review . Proposals should be grounded in foundational research that lays a foundation for understanding the development and scope of the the topic and its relevance.
  • Failure to delimit the contextual scope of your research [e.g., time, place, people, etc.]. As with any research paper, your proposed study must inform the reader how and in what ways the study will frame the problem.
  • Failure to develop a coherent and persuasive argument for the proposed research . This is critical. In many workplace settings, the research proposal is a formal document intended to argue for why a study should be funded.
  • Sloppy or imprecise writing, or poor grammar . Although a research proposal does not represent a completed research study, there is still an expectation that it is well-written and follows the style and rules of good academic writing.
  • Too much detail on minor issues, but not enough detail on major issues . Your proposal should focus on only a few key research questions in order to support the argument that the research needs to be conducted. Minor issues, even if valid, can be mentioned but they should not dominate the overall narrative.

Procter, Margaret. The Academic Proposal.  The Lab Report. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Sanford, Keith. Information for Students: Writing a Research Proposal. Baylor University; Wong, Paul T. P. How to Write a Research Proposal. International Network on Personal Meaning. Trinity Western University; Writing Academic Proposals: Conferences, Articles, and Books. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Writing a Research Proposal. University Library. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Structure and Writing Style

Beginning the Proposal Process

As with writing most college-level academic papers, research proposals are generally organized the same way throughout most social science disciplines. The text of proposals generally vary in length between ten and thirty-five pages, followed by the list of references. However, before you begin, read the assignment carefully and, if anything seems unclear, ask your professor whether there are any specific requirements for organizing and writing the proposal.

A good place to begin is to ask yourself a series of questions:

  • What do I want to study?
  • Why is the topic important?
  • How is it significant within the subject areas covered in my class?
  • What problems will it help solve?
  • How does it build upon [and hopefully go beyond] research already conducted on the topic?
  • What exactly should I plan to do, and can I get it done in the time available?

In general, a compelling research proposal should document your knowledge of the topic and demonstrate your enthusiasm for conducting the study. Approach it with the intention of leaving your readers feeling like, "Wow, that's an exciting idea and I can’t wait to see how it turns out!"

Most proposals should include the following sections:

I.  Introduction

In the real world of higher education, a research proposal is most often written by scholars seeking grant funding for a research project or it's the first step in getting approval to write a doctoral dissertation. Even if this is just a course assignment, treat your introduction as the initial pitch of an idea based on a thorough examination of the significance of a research problem. After reading the introduction, your readers should not only have an understanding of what you want to do, but they should also be able to gain a sense of your passion for the topic and to be excited about the study's possible outcomes. Note that most proposals do not include an abstract [summary] before the introduction.

Think about your introduction as a narrative written in two to four paragraphs that succinctly answers the following four questions :

  • What is the central research problem?
  • What is the topic of study related to that research problem?
  • What methods should be used to analyze the research problem?
  • Answer the "So What?" question by explaining why this is important research, what is its significance, and why should someone reading the proposal care about the outcomes of the proposed study?

II.  Background and Significance

This is where you explain the scope and context of your proposal and describe in detail why it's important. It can be melded into your introduction or you can create a separate section to help with the organization and narrative flow of your proposal. Approach writing this section with the thought that you can’t assume your readers will know as much about the research problem as you do. Note that this section is not an essay going over everything you have learned about the topic; instead, you must choose what is most relevant in explaining the aims of your research.

To that end, while there are no prescribed rules for establishing the significance of your proposed study, you should attempt to address some or all of the following:

  • State the research problem and give a more detailed explanation about the purpose of the study than what you stated in the introduction. This is particularly important if the problem is complex or multifaceted .
  • Present the rationale of your proposed study and clearly indicate why it is worth doing; be sure to answer the "So What? question [i.e., why should anyone care?].
  • Describe the major issues or problems examined by your research. This can be in the form of questions to be addressed. Be sure to note how your proposed study builds on previous assumptions about the research problem.
  • Explain the methods you plan to use for conducting your research. Clearly identify the key sources you intend to use and explain how they will contribute to your analysis of the topic.
  • Describe the boundaries of your proposed research in order to provide a clear focus. Where appropriate, state not only what you plan to study, but what aspects of the research problem will be excluded from the study.
  • If necessary, provide definitions of key concepts, theories, or terms.

III.  Literature Review

Connected to the background and significance of your study is a section of your proposal devoted to a more deliberate review and synthesis of prior studies related to the research problem under investigation . The purpose here is to place your project within the larger whole of what is currently being explored, while at the same time, demonstrating to your readers that your work is original and innovative. Think about what questions other researchers have asked, what methodological approaches they have used, and what is your understanding of their findings and, when stated, their recommendations. Also pay attention to any suggestions for further research.

Since a literature review is information dense, it is crucial that this section is intelligently structured to enable a reader to grasp the key arguments underpinning your proposed study in relation to the arguments put forth by other researchers. A good strategy is to break the literature into "conceptual categories" [themes] rather than systematically or chronologically describing groups of materials one at a time. Note that conceptual categories generally reveal themselves after you have read most of the pertinent literature on your topic so adding new categories is an on-going process of discovery as you review more studies. How do you know you've covered the key conceptual categories underlying the research literature? Generally, you can have confidence that all of the significant conceptual categories have been identified if you start to see repetition in the conclusions or recommendations that are being made.

NOTE: Do not shy away from challenging the conclusions made in prior research as a basis for supporting the need for your proposal. Assess what you believe is missing and state how previous research has failed to adequately examine the issue that your study addresses. Highlighting the problematic conclusions strengthens your proposal. For more information on writing literature reviews, GO HERE .

To help frame your proposal's review of prior research, consider the "five C’s" of writing a literature review:

  • Cite , so as to keep the primary focus on the literature pertinent to your research problem.
  • Compare the various arguments, theories, methodologies, and findings expressed in the literature: what do the authors agree on? Who applies similar approaches to analyzing the research problem?
  • Contrast the various arguments, themes, methodologies, approaches, and controversies expressed in the literature: describe what are the major areas of disagreement, controversy, or debate among scholars?
  • Critique the literature: Which arguments are more persuasive, and why? Which approaches, findings, and methodologies seem most reliable, valid, or appropriate, and why? Pay attention to the verbs you use to describe what an author says/does [e.g., asserts, demonstrates, argues, etc.].
  • Connect the literature to your own area of research and investigation: how does your own work draw upon, depart from, synthesize, or add a new perspective to what has been said in the literature?

IV.  Research Design and Methods

This section must be well-written and logically organized because you are not actually doing the research, yet, your reader must have confidence that you have a plan worth pursuing . The reader will never have a study outcome from which to evaluate whether your methodological choices were the correct ones. Thus, the objective here is to convince the reader that your overall research design and proposed methods of analysis will correctly address the problem and that the methods will provide the means to effectively interpret the potential results. Your design and methods should be unmistakably tied to the specific aims of your study.

Describe the overall research design by building upon and drawing examples from your review of the literature. Consider not only methods that other researchers have used, but methods of data gathering that have not been used but perhaps could be. Be specific about the methodological approaches you plan to undertake to obtain information, the techniques you would use to analyze the data, and the tests of external validity to which you commit yourself [i.e., the trustworthiness by which you can generalize from your study to other people, places, events, and/or periods of time].

When describing the methods you will use, be sure to cover the following:

  • Specify the research process you will undertake and the way you will interpret the results obtained in relation to the research problem. Don't just describe what you intend to achieve from applying the methods you choose, but state how you will spend your time while applying these methods [e.g., coding text from interviews to find statements about the need to change school curriculum; running a regression to determine if there is a relationship between campaign advertising on social media sites and election outcomes in Europe ].
  • Keep in mind that the methodology is not just a list of tasks; it is a deliberate argument as to why techniques for gathering information add up to the best way to investigate the research problem. This is an important point because the mere listing of tasks to be performed does not demonstrate that, collectively, they effectively address the research problem. Be sure you clearly explain this.
  • Anticipate and acknowledge any potential barriers and pitfalls in carrying out your research design and explain how you plan to address them. No method applied to research in the social and behavioral sciences is perfect, so you need to describe where you believe challenges may exist in obtaining data or accessing information. It's always better to acknowledge this than to have it brought up by your professor!

V.  Preliminary Suppositions and Implications

Just because you don't have to actually conduct the study and analyze the results, doesn't mean you can skip talking about the analytical process and potential implications . The purpose of this section is to argue how and in what ways you believe your research will refine, revise, or extend existing knowledge in the subject area under investigation. Depending on the aims and objectives of your study, describe how the anticipated results will impact future scholarly research, theory, practice, forms of interventions, or policy making. Note that such discussions may have either substantive [a potential new policy], theoretical [a potential new understanding], or methodological [a potential new way of analyzing] significance.   When thinking about the potential implications of your study, ask the following questions:

  • What might the results mean in regards to challenging the theoretical framework and underlying assumptions that support the study?
  • What suggestions for subsequent research could arise from the potential outcomes of the study?
  • What will the results mean to practitioners in the natural settings of their workplace, organization, or community?
  • Will the results influence programs, methods, and/or forms of intervention?
  • How might the results contribute to the solution of social, economic, or other types of problems?
  • Will the results influence policy decisions?
  • In what way do individuals or groups benefit should your study be pursued?
  • What will be improved or changed as a result of the proposed research?
  • How will the results of the study be implemented and what innovations or transformative insights could emerge from the process of implementation?

NOTE:   This section should not delve into idle speculation, opinion, or be formulated on the basis of unclear evidence . The purpose is to reflect upon gaps or understudied areas of the current literature and describe how your proposed research contributes to a new understanding of the research problem should the study be implemented as designed.

ANOTHER NOTE : This section is also where you describe any potential limitations to your proposed study. While it is impossible to highlight all potential limitations because the study has yet to be conducted, you still must tell the reader where and in what form impediments may arise and how you plan to address them.

VI.  Conclusion

The conclusion reiterates the importance or significance of your proposal and provides a brief summary of the entire study . This section should be only one or two paragraphs long, emphasizing why the research problem is worth investigating, why your research study is unique, and how it should advance existing knowledge.

Someone reading this section should come away with an understanding of:

  • Why the study should be done;
  • The specific purpose of the study and the research questions it attempts to answer;
  • The decision for why the research design and methods used where chosen over other options;
  • The potential implications emerging from your proposed study of the research problem; and
  • A sense of how your study fits within the broader scholarship about the research problem.

VII.  Citations

As with any scholarly research paper, you must cite the sources you used . In a standard research proposal, this section can take two forms, so consult with your professor about which one is preferred.

  • References -- a list of only the sources you actually used in creating your proposal.
  • Bibliography -- a list of everything you used in creating your proposal, along with additional citations to any key sources relevant to understanding the research problem.

In either case, this section should testify to the fact that you did enough preparatory work to ensure the project will complement and not just duplicate the efforts of other researchers. It demonstrates to the reader that you have a thorough understanding of prior research on the topic.

Most proposal formats have you start a new page and use the heading "References" or "Bibliography" centered at the top of the page. Cited works should always use a standard format that follows the writing style advised by the discipline of your course [e.g., education=APA; history=Chicago] or that is preferred by your professor. This section normally does not count towards the total page length of your research proposal.

Develop a Research Proposal: Writing the Proposal. Office of Library Information Services. Baltimore County Public Schools; Heath, M. Teresa Pereira and Caroline Tynan. “Crafting a Research Proposal.” The Marketing Review 10 (Summer 2010): 147-168; Jones, Mark. “Writing a Research Proposal.” In MasterClass in Geography Education: Transforming Teaching and Learning . Graham Butt, editor. (New York: Bloomsbury Academic, 2015), pp. 113-127; Juni, Muhamad Hanafiah. “Writing a Research Proposal.” International Journal of Public Health and Clinical Sciences 1 (September/October 2014): 229-240; Krathwohl, David R. How to Prepare a Dissertation Proposal: Suggestions for Students in Education and the Social and Behavioral Sciences . Syracuse, NY: Syracuse University Press, 2005; Procter, Margaret. The Academic Proposal. The Lab Report. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Punch, Keith and Wayne McGowan. "Developing and Writing a Research Proposal." In From Postgraduate to Social Scientist: A Guide to Key Skills . Nigel Gilbert, ed. (Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 2006), 59-81; Wong, Paul T. P. How to Write a Research Proposal. International Network on Personal Meaning. Trinity Western University; Writing Academic Proposals: Conferences , Articles, and Books. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Writing a Research Proposal. University Library. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

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List of Great Topics for Research Proposals

Table of Contents

Writing a research proposal is no small task, but it’s an invaluable step in determining the success of your project. Choosing interesting and impactful topics for research proposals can be overwhelming for students.

Whether you are looking for ideas within your field or across disciplines, this article will provide insight into great topics for research proposals. We’ll discuss the importance of choosing the right topic and showcase some inspiring topic ideas to get you started.

What Is a Research Proposal?

A research proposal is a document that outlines an idea for a project, usually academic in nature, and seeks funding or approval . It can include a concise overview of the proposed study. It also details the methodology, resources needed, expected outcomes, and how results will be used.

A good research proposal must demonstrate the importance of the project’s scope and make a persuasive argument for why it should be undertaken.

Why Is a Research Proposal Topic so Significant?

A research proposal topic is crucial because it is the foundation for a meaningful project. A good research proposal topic should be interesting, relevant to current conversations in the field, and focused. It should clearly define what the researcher plans to investigate and analyze.

Furthermore, the topic should contain novelty; it should bring something new that hasn’t been previously addressed or discussed. It should also pose an answerable question and have enough material available to comprehensively explore the issue.

Ultimately, a practical research proposal topic must be academically sound and clearly articulated, so others can easily understand its implications.

Great Topics for Research Proposals

A good research proposal topic can make or break your paper, so it’s essential to choose one carefully. When selecting a research proposal topic, you should consider what interests you most and what would be the best fit for your assignment.

Below are some great topics for research proposals on various subjects:

Business Research Proposal Topics

  • Analyze the effects of automation on small businesses
  • Examine the implications of working long hours in the workplace
  • Discuss proven approaches for successful business operations
  • Explore effective marketing strategies for various kinds of businesses
  • Share creative tactics to make an impactful sales pitch
  • Investigate the steps to transition into a new organizational culture
  • Explore the implications of adopting digitalized operations in businesses
  • Analyze the economic consequences caused by COVID-19. pandemic on businesses
  • Delineate how virtual reality can be a potential game-changer for customers
  • Evaluate the effect of digital technology on business processes

Marketing Research Proposal Topics

  • Investigate how influencer marketing has shaped the fashion industry.
  • Explore the various marketing techniques utilized across different cultures.
  • Analyze and discuss global marketing blunders.
  • Research the strategies employed to capitalize on impulsive buying habits.
  • Establish the importance of creating a unified brand identity.
  • Determine whether or not gamification can be effectively used as a marketing tool.
  • Evaluate advertising analytics and examine cutting-edge marketing innovations.
  • Critically analyze the effectiveness of influencer marketing campaigns.
  • Analyze the Connection Between Brand Awareness and Repeat Purchases.
  • Explore Consumers’ Emotional Reactions to Brand Promotion Campaigns

Person using laptop

Law Research Proposal Topics

  • Investigate Strategies to Curtail Human Trafficking Cases in Developing Countries
  • Analyze the Role of Media Coverage in Crime Perpetuation
  • Evaluate the Effectiveness of Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
  • Analyze the Relevance of Criminal Procedure Rules in Contemporary Society.
  • Assess Legal Frameworks for Cybersecurity Liability and Compliance
  • Delineate Taxation Guidelines for International Corporate Investments
  • Investigate the Development and Transformation of International Trade Regulations.
  • Examine the Relationship between Immigration Law and Domestic Terrorism
  • Examine the Ramifications of Data Protection Policies in a Digital Age
  • Assess the Efficiency of Sexual Harassment Laws in Practice.

Research Proposal Topics on Education

  • Examine the Impact of Art Education on Early Learning Outcomes
  • Explore Teacher Retention Strategies in Low-Income Schools
  • Assess the Influence of Technology on Students’ Academic Performance
  • Analyze the Relationship Between Parental Involvement and Student Achievement
  • Investigate the Effectiveness of Online Learning Platforms
  • Examine Implications of Inequitable School Funding Sources
  • Analyze the Role of Educational Institutions in Social Cohesion
  • Evaluate the Benefits of Universal Pre-Kindergarten Programs
  • Compare traditional and innovative classroom models
  • Analyze Curriculum Differentiation in International Schools

IT & Computer Science Research Proposal Topics

  • Explore the Impact of AI-Powered Cybersecurity Solutions on Data Protection
  • Assess the potential hazards of implementing smart home devices.
  • Investigate Machine Learning Approaches to Enhancing E-Commerce Experience
  • Assess Blockchain Technology’s Potential as a Regulatory Compliance Tool
  • Evaluate Cloud Computing as an Effective Platform for Storage, Hosting, and Application Deployment
  • Analyze how Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality transform students’ learning outcomes
  • Examine the Utility of Voice Recognition Software in Streamlining Digital Interactions
  • Unearthing Artificial Intelligence Strategies for Implementing Autonomous Vehicles
  • Analyze Augmented Reality Technologies in Revolutionizing Online Shopping Experiences
  • Delineate 5G Network Connectivity in Revitalizing Modern Communication Infrastructure

A research proposal is an important document that outlines the key points of a research project . You must choose an interesting and relevant topic for your research proposal to help you succeed with your project.

The topics chosen must deal with current societal issues, examine the importance of certain aspects, or offer new insights into existing problems. As a starting point, this article provides a list of research proposal topics from a variety of disciplines.

List of Great Topics for Research Proposals

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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

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

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

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

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

🔬 Research Proposal: Definition

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

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

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

💡 Research Proposal Topics

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

What is the first thing to be done, then?

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

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

Political Science Research Proposal Topics

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

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

Research Proposal Topics in Information Technology

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

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

Computer Science Project Proposal Topics

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

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

Business Research Proposal Topics

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

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

Management Research Proposal Topics

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

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

MBA Research Proposal Topic Ideas

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

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

Business Project Proposal Ideas

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

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

Research Proposal Topics on Education

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

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

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

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

Special Education Research Proposal Topics

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

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

Research Proposal Topics in Early Childhood Education

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

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

Sociology Research Proposal Topics

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

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

Other Research Proposal Topics

History research proposal example topics.

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

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

Research Proposal Topics in English and World Literature

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

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

Chemistry Research Proposal Topic Ideas

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

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

Psychology Research Proposal Example Topics

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

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

Research Proposal Topics in Philosophy

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

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

Research Proposal Topics in Development Studies

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

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

Medical Research Proposal Sample Topics

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

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

Biology Research Proposal Sample Topics

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

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

Environmental Research Proposal Topics

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

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

Research Proposal Topics in International Relations

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

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

Topics for a Research Proposal: Economics

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

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

Criminal Justice Research Proposal Topics

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

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

Qualitative Research Proposal Sample Topics

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

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

Quantitative Research Proposal Topics to Write About

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

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

Easy Research Proposal Topics for Students

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

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

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

📝   How to Write a Project Proposal

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

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

Components of Research Proposal

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

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

Essay title tips list.

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

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

What to include in an abstract list.

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

Introduction

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

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

A research proposal introduction should contain the following three parts:

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

Research Methodology

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

Choose your research methodology.

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

Research Results

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

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

Two ways of presenting and organizing the research results.

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

Research Discussion

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

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

Ethical Considerations

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

References and Appendices

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

Examples of items in appendices.

Outline of a Research Proposal: Step by Step

STEP #1. Write the abstract.

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

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

The next step is writing a research methodology section.

STEP #2. Introduce your methodological approach.

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

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

STEP #3. Introduce your data collection methods.

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

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

Here are the main methods of primary data collection:

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

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

STEP #4. Describe your methods of analysis.

The methods of analysis can be qualitative or quantitative.

Multiple linear regression.

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

STEP #5. Justify your choices.

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

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

Research Proposal Cover Page & Format

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

Research Proposal Title Page

The front page of a proposal includes the following:

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

Formatting and References

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

Research Proposal Timeline

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

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

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

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

📄 Undergraduate Research Proposal Sample

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

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

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

Learn more on this topic:

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

🔗  References

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

Hardest Research Proposal Questions and Best Sample Answers

Featured Expert: Dr. Michela Insenga, PhD

Hardest Research Proposal Questions and Best Sample Answers

Practicing with sample research proposal questions and answers can have great benefits for any major research project such as a dissertation or thesis. This is often the final step before you finally get your doctorate degree. However, before all of that, you must first craft a research proposal. This is a detailed outline that will transform into the thesis that you will eventually have to defend in front of a panel of distinguished academics. It is always important to be aware of what thesis defense questions you will be asked when it is all said and done, but you may have to start justifying your research a little earlier on with the completion of a research proposal.

In this article, we include sample questions and answers you could be faced with when submitting your research proposal, some tips for preparing your responses, as well as the benefits of seeking professional help from a grad school advisor .

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

Article Contents 13 min read

What to expect for your research proposal.

Early on in your PhD process, you may have to submit a research proposal that details the scope of your research and what you plan to for an eventual thesis or dissertation project. You have already learned how to find a PhD topic , so now it is time to put your passion for your field into practice and start to manifest the ideas swimming in your head.

This document should include the specific topic you would like to research, what angle you will be taking for your research, as well as your justification for choosing this subject. Regardless of whether or not your goals are the same as when you wrote your research interest statement sample , you must still provide an update about what your project is going to examine.

Should you go to grad school? Watch this video:

The purpose of the research proposal is to convince your supervisor that you are on the right direction. You are essentially providing a roadmap for your supervisor through your motives in undertaking this project and how you plan to complete it. Your supervisor will have to evaluate whether or not your project is relevant to the degree you are completing and manageable within the time constraints or other limitations you have.

As a result, you may have to undergo a research proposal defense or your supervisor will ask guiding questions about the state of your project. While this is still very early in the process, it is a great way for getting to know how to prepare for a thesis defense , as the questions you will be have a similar intent. Receiving guidance on your research before spending a lot of time on it can be more beneficial to you as you complete coursework or any other responsibilities as a graduate student. Questions from your supervisor can make your think critically about the end result of your result, and will hopefully lead to a better result.

Be Very Familiar With Your Proposal

This sounds like an obvious tip, but PhD research proposals can be 1500-2000 words long and can be a lot of information to remember at once. Once it is complete, try and have as great of a grasp of the material as you can. Before going into any meeting where you will discuss your work, make sure to become reacquainted with the information you have found and the goals you are hoping to achieve. Re-read your proposal several times to both proofread it for typos or other errors, but also to become comfortable with its contents. You want to make sure that your answers line up with the document you are officially submitting as your proposal.

Ask for Advice

If you are having trouble creating your proposal, you can always consult thesis writing services to help you plan out and put your thoughts into words. Professionals can also help with your speaking ability when responding and help you strategize so that you deliver efficient responses that sum up your research faithfully. Either together with an advisor or on your own, you can predict the obvious questions that are coming and prepare yourself to answer them. If your supervisor will be overseeing your proposal, try to anticipate what concerns they will have. Come up with a list of questions yourself, so you can workshop how you answer them.

Use Strategies to Answer Questions

Just like preparing for graduate school interview questions , you can develop strategies for how to answer questions about your research proposal. Keep your answers direct. You can also pose questions about areas you are unsure about. Do not be afraid to not have all the answers. At this point of your research, you are not expected to know everything point. The purpose of your proposal is to see where you are at right now and what you need to adjust on to make the best final product possible. Your supervisor or other academics that will pose questions about your proposal are not out to get you. They have years of experiences with similar projects, and are likely are qualified to give helpful feedback on your work in progress.

1. What is your research project about?

This answer should be a short summary about your research project. This question may seem like this simplest of them all, but you need to have a solid direction on where you want your thesis to go in order for it be effective. It does not need to be as complete as if you were to be summarizing your final product, since your project is still in its development stages. For instance, a sociological study regarding gendered tendencies towards deviant behaviors on the internet might be formatted in this manner:

For this research project, I plan to examine the rise of online deviant sociological behaviour on social media platforms during recent global shutdowns such as the COVID-19 pandemic and how gender identity and sexual orientation amplify these concerns. These acts of deviance can include instances of catfishing, deception, pornography, obscenity, cyber bullying, flaming, among others. I will also relate these findings to psychological impacts of both the perpetrators and victims or other relevant criminal behaviors that do not take place online, pointing out the differences between common trends for men vs. women in these altercations.

2. Why did you select this particular topic?

This question is meant to assess your motivation for choosing the subject of your research proposal. It is possible that you have previously touched on this kind of question during your graduate school interview when answering “Why do you want to do a PhD?” . This answer is one that could get a little more into your personal inclination towards the research you pursue. Focus on your particular interests and shape it to the goals of the project. For example, if you conducted a study called, “Forgotten Minds: Book History and Women’s Lost Contributions in 18th and 19th-century England” then you can frame your answer in this way:

As a scholar of the marriage industrial complex that permeated British society in past centuries, I am interested in the ways that a patriarchal structure can silence the marginalized voices of others, as matrimony often did for women. This is all the more evident in the interdisciplinary field of book history, where women’s contributions to the publishing were often ignored, erased, or overshadowed by their husbands. I wanted to indicate any trends that can be discovered by examining the roles of women in 18th and 19th-century printing houses and potentially unearth the forgotten stories of women who worked in these instances.

3. Does your project have a working title?

Titles are very important for academic articles or formal dissertation projects. If you have already learned how to publish as a graduate student , you will know that the title is how other academics or students will find your work when searching through journals and databases. You need to make sure your title is accurate to the research provided. At this point, your title will likely not be final, but it always important to be thinking about.

Sample Answer: My tentative title is “Take a Chill Pill: Natural and Traditional Methods for College Student Anxiety Levels”. I chose this title because it represents both the holistic self-care methods such as meditation and exercise as well as prescription medication. It also points out the focus group immediately, since the study will examine current college students between the ages of 18-24 and indicate any patterns for how they manage stress among unprecedented times.

4. What scope do you think your project will have?

Your proposal will likely touch on several points related to your topic, but it is not really plausible to have a project that considers every single aspect imaginable. You may need to narrow this down as you further develop your research. Start thinking of the boundaries you may have to set as you progress through your work.

Sample Answer: This study will examine consumption trends related to the snack food industry. To start with, I have chosen over 25 products from different companies will be able to be listed and reviewed in the final thesis submission.

5. What makes your project original?

Being a publishing academic is all about filling the gaps in scholarship. Make sure to point out what makes your project stand out from others in the field.

Sample Answer: The project focuses on how remote working and telemedicine shifts the delivery of family medicine procedures in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It does engage with similar studies on the topic of telemedicine, but will add a new perspective by discussing family doctors practicing in the greater Montreal area, specifically, which is a subset I have not yet found within existing scholarship.

6. How is your research in conversation with existing scholarship?

While your research must add something to the field, it also should be in a dialogue with other published works. Explain your process surrounding the other studies you have used to guide your own thesis.

Sample Answer: As my project is related to how autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis present themselves in young adults, I have included fundamental studies on the topic from Dr. Arthur Golden and Dr. Melina Rizzo, as well as other more current examples of scholarship. My study will utilize their concepts in relation to a focus group that is below the age of 30.

7. What kind of research methodology will you be using?

How you will be accessing this research is just as important as the research itself. Try to have a clear path about the measures you will take to complete your study.

Sample Answer: I aim to use detailed and meticulously written surveys about women’s birth experiences at hospitals or affiliated birthing centers. These results will act as the main foundation for my study on maternity health care and treatment.

8. Have you found there to be any interesting developments so far?

Was there any part of the part of the process that you did not expect? For this response, detail any new directions your research has taken as of writing your proposal.

Sample Answer: While looking for evidence that suggests that gender socialization of children affects their behaviour, I was surprised to find out that there is a discrepancy between the emotional responses in animated characters based on gender. Female or feminine-presenting characters are shown smiling on screen much more than their male counterparts, and the masculine-presenting characters were generally more likely to be shown as upset or even violent. That is a development in my research that I did not initially think of or foresee.

9. What do you think your biggest limitations for this research will be?

Look into the work you will have to do for your eventual full-length research project. What do you see being the most difficult part?

Sample Answer: I am looking into the nutritional benefits of drug store chewable gummy multivitamins. However, based on an individual’s prior health conditions or genetic makeup, the results may vary or be distorted. I am presuming that this will be a major limitation as I write my thesis.

10. What will be the dependent and independent variables of this project?

When researching, there are different variables that can potentially affect your results. An independent variable is not affected by other variables in your study, while dependent variables also change if other variables do.

Sample Answer: My study will investigate the impact of guidance counselling for junior and senior high school students. The independent variable is the type of help they require, such as college applications, social development skills, or academic performance. The dependent variable would be the actual outcomes of said counselling.

11. What is your provisional research timeline?

Even if it is not 100% stuck to, try to have a detailed timeline in mind about when research will be completed and how you will fulfill all of your obligations prior to the respective deadlines.

Sample Answer: The provisional research timeline for my proposal is designed to ensure systematic progress and timely completion of all research objectives. My timeline is divided into five phases:

Preparation Phase (4 weeks): In this initial stage, I will conduct a thorough literature review to familiarize myself with existing research and identify potential gaps. Simultaneously, I will finalize the research questions and establish the overall framework for my study.

Data Collection and Analysis (8 weeks): During this phase, I will gather primary data through surveys and interviews, ensuring data collection aligns with ethical guidelines. Once collected, I will proceed with data analysis, utilizing appropriate statistical methods to extract meaningful insights.

Literature Integration (4 weeks): Building upon the analyzed data, I will integrate my findings with existing literature to provide a comprehensive context for my research.

Drafting and Revision (6 weeks): I will dedicate this phase to writing the research proposal. The initial draft will be critically reviewed and refined through multiple iterations to enhance clarity and coherence.

Finalization and Submission (1 week): In the final phase, I will incorporate feedback from peers and advisors and polish the research paper to its final form. The completed research paper will be submitted by the designated deadline.

This provisional timeline, spanning 23 weeks, allows for flexibility and contingency plans to accommodate unforeseen challenges. Regular progress assessments and adjustments will be made to ensure timely completion and adherence to all obligations.

12. Who are the demographics who will be most interested in your research?

An important aspect of your research to think about will be who will be the most interested in reading it, as well as who it impacts the most.

Sample Answer: The demographics most interested in my research are likely to be professionals and policymakers within the healthcare industry. Given the focus of my research on implementing technology-driven solutions to enhance patient care and improve healthcare outcomes, healthcare practitioners, administrators, and researchers would find the findings particularly relevant.

Additionally, technology enthusiasts, innovators, and entrepreneurs interested in the intersection of healthcare and technology are also expected to show interest in the research. This group may be keen to explore potential commercial applications of the proposed solutions or seek opportunities for collaboration.

Moreover, the research would significantly impact patients and healthcare consumers. As technology increasingly plays a vital role in healthcare delivery, patients would be interested in understanding how these advancements can positively influence their healthcare experiences and overall well-being.

To ensure the research's reach and impact, I will disseminate the findings through academic publications, conferences, and workshops. Additionally, I will aim to engage with relevant professional organizations, healthcare institutions, and technology forums to stimulate interest and foster practical applications of the research outcomes.

By targeting these demographics, the research can make a meaningful contribution to the field of healthcare technology and help drive advancements that benefit both healthcare providers and patients alike.

13. What do you hope to be the significance of your research?

This is the “So what?” of your research. Will your research have lasting impacts? Evaluate which current issues your research could resolve.

Sample Answer:

The significance of my research lies in its potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery through technology-driven solutions. By addressing current issues such as inefficiencies in healthcare systems, lack of patient engagement, and suboptimal outcomes, my research aims to foster lasting impacts. Implementing technology to improve patient care, streamline processes, and enhance healthcare accessibility could lead to better health outcomes, reduced costs, and an overall improvement in the quality of healthcare services.

14. Are there any ethical issues or debates surrounding your research project?

Some projects are directly tied to ethics and moral issues that are currently being debated. It would be important to mention any ties to these issues and how your research is part of a larger conversation.

Sample Answer: While my research primarily focuses on technology-driven solutions to enhance healthcare, there are potential ethical considerations surrounding data privacy and security. As the research involves collecting and analyzing patient data, ensuring the confidentiality and informed consent of participants is paramount. Additionally, discussions about the responsible use of artificial intelligence in healthcare and potential biases in algorithms are relevant to the larger conversation on the ethical implications of technology in healthcare. Addressing these issues will be crucial to maintaining the integrity and societal benefit of the research.

15. Do you have any personal predictions for the outcome of your research?

If you haven’t yet conducted surveys or a thorough literature review, relay what you think will happen and any other concerns to your supervisor.

Sample Answer: As of now, without conducting surveys or an extensive literature review, I anticipate that the research will demonstrate the potential of technology in positively impacting healthcare outcomes and patient experiences. However, I am also aware that challenges related to data security, technology adoption, and ethical considerations may arise during the research. I will keep my supervisor informed about any unexpected findings and concerns throughout the study to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the research outcomes.

Now that you have seen some sample answers, here are some additional questions you can take on:

  • What sample groups are you using and why?
  • What secondary sources do you plan to use?
  • What do you believe is the strongest point in your research?
  • Are there any biases that could exist in your research or your secondary sources?
  • What are some ways your findings will be put into practice?
  • What was the approach you took when starting your project?
  • What phenomenon are you trying to understand with this research?
  • How has your research project changed from when you started this degree?
  • Do you see any foreseeable weaknesses or blind spots in your study?
  • What measurement instrument did you use for this research?
  • What theoretical framework is your research based on?
  • Is the literature you chose up to date?
  • What pertinent information have you found so far?
  • Does your research have any use for policy makers?
  • What do you plan to do with this research project once you have graduated?

When you are wondering, “should you pursue a master’s or a PhD?” , you truly need to consider the importance of research within the discipline you choose. Part of being an academic is the ability to contribute to the field and, by extension, society as a whole. The research proposal and the subsequent dissertation may be the last step to complete your degree, but it is also can be the first real step of your professional career.

Any meeting with your supervisor or instant where you have to defend your work is simply part of the process of being a working academic. This can have lasting implications for the future of your career, as knowing how to conduct and present research effectively is key to learning how to find a job in academia . That being said, the first step is putting yourself in the best position to succeed. Using PhD consultants can make all the difference for your project. If you are currently applying to graduate school, these trained experts can help you get into the school of your dreams or assist with finding programs that suit your skillset. They can also provide pointers on your research, as many of them have been in your shoes before.

A research proposal is a concise and structured document that outlines the key objectives, methodology, and significance of a proposed research project, aiming to convince others about the value and feasibility of the study.

A typical research proposal for a doctoral thesis is usually between 10 to 20 pages, depending on the specific requirements of the academic institution and the complexity of the research project.

To find the right research topic for a doctoral thesis, consider your interests, expertise, and the significance of the topic in your field. Engage with relevant literature, consult with advisors and experts, and identify gaps or unresolved issues to narrow down your focus.

Yes, you can and you should include your research on your grad school CV . 

Most graduate programs will ask you to defend your research proposal. However, if it’s a smaller project, a review of the proposal may be sufficient. 

To prepare for a research proposal or thesis defense, thoroughly review your research work, anticipate potential questions, and practice presenting your findings in a clear and concise manner to effectively communicate your research objectives, methodology, and results.

Some mistakes to avoid when writing a research proposal include: lack of clarity in research objectives, insufficient literature review, neglecting to address potential limitations, and failing to align the proposal with the funding agency's guidelines or the university's requirements.

Yes, you can always reach out to thesis writing services for some guidance. 

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how to choose research proposal topic

How to Choose the Perfect Presentation Topic: A Detailed Guide

Discover how to choose the perfect presentation topic with our detailed guide, including tips on audience understanding, brainstorming, and content preparation.

Table of Contents

Understanding your audience, identifying your purpose, brainstorming techniques, researching potential topics, evaluating your topics, narrowing down to the best topic, creating a compelling title, preparing your content, tips for delivering an engaging presentation, key factors to consider:.

  • Demographics: Consider the age, education level, and professional background of your audience. For instance, a technical presentation for a group of engineers will differ vastly from a general overview for high school students.
  • Interests and Expectations: What is your audience interested in? What do they hope to gain from your presentation? Knowing this can help you tailor your content to meet their needs and expectations.
  • Prior Knowledge: Assess how much your audience already knows about the topic. You don’t want to spend too much time on basics if they are already familiar with them, nor do you want to dive into complex details that they won’t understand.

Common Objectives:

  • To Inform: Focus on educating your audience about a specific topic. Your goal is to increase their knowledge or understanding.
  • To Persuade: Convince your audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action.
  • To Entertain: Make your presentation enjoyable while still being informative.
  • To Inspire: Motivate your audience to think differently or take action based on your message.

1. Mind Mapping

2. swot analysis, 3. free writing, 4. keyword research, 5. audience polling, research tips:.

  • Check for Available Resources: Ensure that there is enough information available on the topic to create a well-rounded presentation.
  • Identify Key Points: Determine the key points you want to cover. This will help you assess whether the topic is too broad or too narrow.
  • Look for Recent Developments: Make sure your topic is up-to-date. Including recent developments or trends can make your presentation more relevant and engaging.
  • Relevance to Audience: Does the topic address your audience’s needs and interests?
  • Personal Interest: Are you genuinely interested in the topic? Your enthusiasm will come through in your presentation.
  • Availability of Information: Is there enough material available to create a comprehensive presentation?
  • Scope: Is the topic too broad or too narrow? You want to be able to cover your topic adequately within the time frame.
  • Test Your Ideas: Create a brief outline for each topic. Which one seems to flow better? Which one has more depth?
  • Seek Feedback: If possible, get feedback from colleagues, mentors, or potential audience members. They can provide valuable perspectives that you may not have considered.

Tips for Crafting a Great Title:

  • Be Specific: A specific title gives your audience a clear idea of what to expect. For example, “Effective Time Management Strategies for Busy Professionals” is more compelling than “Time Management.”
  • Include a Benefit: Highlight what your audience will gain from your presentation. For example, “Boost Your Productivity with These Time Management Hacks.”
  • Use Power Words: Words like “Ultimate,” “Essential,” “Guide,” or “Proven” can make your title more engaging.

1. Introduction

  • Hook: Start with a question, statistic, or anecdote to grab attention.
  • Purpose: Clearly state the purpose of your presentation.
  • Overview: Briefly outline the main points you will cover.
  • Main Points: Organize your content into 2-5 main points. Each point should be supported by data, examples, or stories.
  • Visuals: Use visuals like charts, graphs, and images to reinforce your message.
  • Transitions: Use clear transitions between points to maintain flow and coherence.

3. Conclusion

  • Summary: Recap the main points of your presentation.
  • Call to Action: If applicable, tell your audience what you want them to do next.
  • Q&A: Prepare for questions that your audience may have.

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Speaker 1: Hi guys, in this video we are going to talk about how do you choose a research topic. So if you are in your final year of undergrad or doing your masters or PhD, you will come across this juncture where you have to complete a research project and the first thing that you need to do is choose a research topic. So how do you even go about it? How much time does it take to choose a topic? And what are some of the things that you need to keep in mind while choosing a research topic? Well, let's find out. I am Neha Agrawal. I am the founder of VizUp Communications and I have three research papers in journals of international repute. In this video, I am going to share with you what are the three different criterias that the research topic you choose should fulfill. After that, I will also share with you the different ways how you can choose a research topic and you can go for the one which works best for you. So let's begin. The first criteria that your research topic should satisfy is that it should be interesting. If the topic is not interesting to you, you will not have the motivation to dig deeper and learn more about it. Also, conducting research is not easy. It can get monotonous when you have to work on the same topic for a very long time. It can also be frustrating sometimes if you are not getting the results that you actually hoped for. So if the topic is not interesting to you, you will lose the motivation to continue on that journey and complete the project. So choosing a topic that appeals to you is very important. The next criteria is novelty. The problem that you choose to solve should be new, should be innovative, something nobody has done before, no matter how small the problem is. There is no point in repeating something that has already been done by some other researcher. So do your literature survey very carefully, read a lot of research papers pertaining to that topic and make sure that the problem you are trying to solve is novel. Finally, the third criteria to choose your research topic is that it should be manageable. When you are in your final year of undergrad or doing your masters, you have limited time to complete a research project. So choose a topic which is manageable and can be completed in the given time frame. Sometimes what happens is that we underestimate the demands of the research project and then college gets over and you are forced to submit the project even if you have not completed it fully. And the worst part is that it remains abandoned and no tangible outcome comes out of it like a research paper or a conference presentation. So from the very beginning, choose a research topic which is manageable and can be completed in the given time frame. So now that you know what are the different criteria that your research topic should fulfil, let's see how are you supposed to choose a research topic. The first and the most easiest way to choose a research topic is to approach a professor. If you are studying in a research focused institute, professors usually have their own research groups and multiple research projects running parallelly. So what you can do is approach a professor and ask them if they have any research problem for you to solve. If they do, they will share a research topic with you or even link you with somebody from their research group, either a PhD or a postdoc to help you out. Then you can learn more about the topic by reading review papers, books, research articles and even discussing with the members of the research group. Through this way you will have a research topic almost instantly and with guidance you will be able to complete your research project as well. The second way to choose a research topic gives you slightly more flexibility in understanding what you like and then figuring out the research topic on your own. So here what you can do is visit the website of your college or any other institute for that matter where you would like to conduct your research project. Look at the research that is being conducted by the different research groups of that institute. Let me share an example here. Since I am an alumnus of NTU Singapore, I will go to NTU's website and then to the specific school which is the School of Material Science and Engineering. Here I can see the research that is being conducted by different research groups of that school. Now I will pick any professor to zoom into their research areas. Say for example I pick Prof. Chen Zong. He is conducting the research on all these topics. I look at the papers that have been published by him and I choose one of them and start reading it. When I do this, I will be able to understand more about the topic and also see whether it interests me or not. Why I am suggesting this process to you because in this way you will be able to know what is the latest research that is happening all across the world. Now say for example the topic does interest you. Then you can start backtracking the paper. Read the research paper carefully and pick out some keywords that have been used again and again. Download more papers related to those keywords and try to understand its meaning. When you keep backtracking the paper in this way, you will be able to establish the fundamentals on which this research is based upon. And once you have understood the fundamentals, you can dig deeper into the topic and finally arrive at a problem that nobody else has been able to solve. So through this method, you can choose a topic that really interests you and it also gives you the flexibility to either work with that professor or anywhere else where the research facilities are available. However, this process is slightly lengthy. It can take you up to 1-2 months of good literature survey to finally arrive at your research topic. The third and the final way to choose your research topic is the most traditional way. It takes the maximum time but the foundation that it builds for you is something that helps you throughout your research journey. So here what you should do is choose a broad topic that interests you and then keep digging deeper until you arrive at a problem that other researchers have not been able to solve. So let me explain this with an example. Say a broad area that interests you is nanotechnology. To know more about nanotechnology, you can download review papers to understand which are the current areas on which nanotechnology research is taking place. Then you will come across multiple areas like nanomaterials, nanomedicine, drug delivery, energy storage and even solar cells. Read the review papers to learn more about these different topics. After reading, say for example, you feel that you connect with solar cells research. So again what you can do is read a lot of books, articles, review papers to understand what is happening in solar cell research. You will come across different areas again. Say for example, what are the different materials that are being used to make solar cells or what are the different fabrication processes through which solar cells are made. Out of those, say solar cell materials really interest you. Then you again download papers and read more about it. So continue this process till you finally arrive at a problem that other researchers have not been able to solve. Say for example, in this case, you arrive at a problem that a particular material that is used to make solar cells which is perovskite, the other researchers have not been able to increase its efficiency beyond 10%. So there you go. That can be your research topic to increase the efficiency of perovskite based solar cells so that they function even better. As I said earlier, this process is long and it can take somewhere between three to six months for you to finalize your research topic. But the foundation that you will build for yourself from this process, it will be rock solid. If at any point you feel that you're getting lost and you need guidance, don't feel afraid to seek out help from professors or researchers in this process. So guys, these are the three different ways how people in academia usually go about choosing their research topics. You can choose any of the method based on what works best for you and the resources that are available to you. If you want me to make more videos on how to conduct research, do hit the like button and subscribe to this channel. You can also join me for my research paper writing workshop. The link is given in the description. And now wishing you all the very best for your research journey ahead.

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how to choose research proposal topic

Research Topics & Ideas: Healthcare

Dissertation Coaching

F inding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to crafting a high-quality dissertation, thesis or research project. If you’ve landed on this post, chances are you’re looking for a healthcare-related research topic , but aren’t sure where to start. Here, we’ll explore a variety of healthcare-related research ideas and topic thought-starters across a range of healthcare fields, including allopathic and alternative medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, optometry, pharmacology and public health.

NB – This is just the start…

The topic ideation and evaluation process has multiple steps . In this post, we’ll kickstart the process by sharing some research topic ideas within the healthcare domain. This is the starting point, but to develop a well-defined research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , along with a well-justified plan of action to fill that gap.

If you’re new to the oftentimes perplexing world of research, or if this is your first time undertaking a formal academic research project, be sure to check out our free dissertation mini-course. In it, we cover the process of writing a dissertation or thesis from start to end. Be sure to also sign up for our free webinar that explores how to find a high-quality research topic.

Overview: Healthcare Research Topics

  • Allopathic medicine
  • Alternative /complementary medicine
  • Veterinary medicine
  • Physical therapy/ rehab
  • Optometry and ophthalmology
  • Pharmacy and pharmacology
  • Public health
  • Examples of healthcare-related dissertations

Allopathic (Conventional) Medicine

  • The effectiveness of telemedicine in remote elderly patient care
  • The impact of stress on the immune system of cancer patients
  • The effects of a plant-based diet on chronic diseases such as diabetes
  • The use of AI in early cancer diagnosis and treatment
  • The role of the gut microbiome in mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety
  • The efficacy of mindfulness meditation in reducing chronic pain: A systematic review
  • The benefits and drawbacks of electronic health records in a developing country
  • The effects of environmental pollution on breast milk quality
  • The use of personalized medicine in treating genetic disorders
  • The impact of social determinants of health on chronic diseases in Asia
  • The role of high-intensity interval training in improving cardiovascular health
  • The efficacy of using probiotics for gut health in pregnant women
  • The impact of poor sleep on the treatment of chronic illnesses
  • The role of inflammation in the development of chronic diseases such as lupus
  • The effectiveness of physiotherapy in pain control post-surgery

Research Topic Mega List

Topics & Ideas: Alternative Medicine

  • The benefits of herbal medicine in treating young asthma patients
  • The use of acupuncture in treating infertility in women over 40 years of age
  • The effectiveness of homoeopathy in treating mental health disorders: A systematic review
  • The role of aromatherapy in reducing stress and anxiety post-surgery
  • The impact of mindfulness meditation on reducing high blood pressure
  • The use of chiropractic therapy in treating back pain of pregnant women
  • The efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine such as Shun-Qi-Tong-Xie (SQTX) in treating digestive disorders in China
  • The impact of yoga on physical and mental health in adolescents
  • The benefits of hydrotherapy in treating musculoskeletal disorders such as tendinitis
  • The role of Reiki in promoting healing and relaxation post birth
  • The effectiveness of naturopathy in treating skin conditions such as eczema
  • The use of deep tissue massage therapy in reducing chronic pain in amputees
  • The impact of tai chi on the treatment of anxiety and depression
  • The benefits of reflexology in treating stress, anxiety and chronic fatigue
  • The role of acupuncture in the prophylactic management of headaches and migraines

Research topic evaluator

Topics & Ideas: Dentistry

  • The impact of sugar consumption on the oral health of infants
  • The use of digital dentistry in improving patient care: A systematic review
  • The efficacy of orthodontic treatments in correcting bite problems in adults
  • The role of dental hygiene in preventing gum disease in patients with dental bridges
  • The impact of smoking on oral health and tobacco cessation support from UK dentists
  • The benefits of dental implants in restoring missing teeth in adolescents
  • The use of lasers in dental procedures such as root canals
  • The efficacy of root canal treatment using high-frequency electric pulses in saving infected teeth
  • The role of fluoride in promoting remineralization and slowing down demineralization
  • The impact of stress-induced reflux on oral health
  • The benefits of dental crowns in restoring damaged teeth in elderly patients
  • The use of sedation dentistry in managing dental anxiety in children
  • The efficacy of teeth whitening treatments in improving dental aesthetics in patients with braces
  • The role of orthodontic appliances in improving well-being
  • The impact of periodontal disease on overall health and chronic illnesses

Free Webinar: How To Find A Dissertation Research Topic

Topics & Ideas: Veterinary Medicine

  • The impact of nutrition on broiler chicken production
  • The role of vaccines in disease prevention in horses
  • The importance of parasite control in animal health in piggeries
  • The impact of animal behaviour on welfare in the dairy industry
  • The effects of environmental pollution on the health of cattle
  • The role of veterinary technology such as MRI in animal care
  • The importance of pain management in post-surgery health outcomes
  • The impact of genetics on animal health and disease in layer chickens
  • The effectiveness of alternative therapies in veterinary medicine: A systematic review
  • The role of veterinary medicine in public health: A case study of the COVID-19 pandemic
  • The impact of climate change on animal health and infectious diseases in animals
  • The importance of animal welfare in veterinary medicine and sustainable agriculture
  • The effects of the human-animal bond on canine health
  • The role of veterinary medicine in conservation efforts: A case study of Rhinoceros poaching in Africa
  • The impact of veterinary research of new vaccines on animal health

Private Coaching

Topics & Ideas: Physical Therapy/Rehab

  • The efficacy of aquatic therapy in improving joint mobility and strength in polio patients
  • The impact of telerehabilitation on patient outcomes in Germany
  • The effect of kinesiotaping on reducing knee pain and improving function in individuals with chronic pain
  • A comparison of manual therapy and yoga exercise therapy in the management of low back pain
  • The use of wearable technology in physical rehabilitation and the impact on patient adherence to a rehabilitation plan
  • The impact of mindfulness-based interventions in physical therapy in adolescents
  • The effects of resistance training on individuals with Parkinson’s disease
  • The role of hydrotherapy in the management of fibromyalgia
  • The impact of cognitive-behavioural therapy in physical rehabilitation for individuals with chronic pain
  • The use of virtual reality in physical rehabilitation of sports injuries
  • The effects of electrical stimulation on muscle function and strength in athletes
  • The role of physical therapy in the management of stroke recovery: A systematic review
  • The impact of pilates on mental health in individuals with depression
  • The use of thermal modalities in physical therapy and its effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation
  • The effect of strength training on balance and gait in elderly patients

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how to choose research proposal topic

Topics & Ideas: Optometry & Opthalmology

  • The impact of screen time on the vision and ocular health of children under the age of 5
  • The effects of blue light exposure from digital devices on ocular health
  • The role of dietary interventions, such as the intake of whole grains, in the management of age-related macular degeneration
  • The use of telemedicine in optometry and ophthalmology in the UK
  • The impact of myopia control interventions on African American children’s vision
  • The use of contact lenses in the management of dry eye syndrome: different treatment options
  • The effects of visual rehabilitation in individuals with traumatic brain injury
  • The role of low vision rehabilitation in individuals with age-related vision loss: challenges and solutions
  • The impact of environmental air pollution on ocular health
  • The effectiveness of orthokeratology in myopia control compared to contact lenses
  • The role of dietary supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, in ocular health
  • The effects of ultraviolet radiation exposure from tanning beds on ocular health
  • The impact of computer vision syndrome on long-term visual function
  • The use of novel diagnostic tools in optometry and ophthalmology in developing countries
  • The effects of virtual reality on visual perception and ocular health: an examination of dry eye syndrome and neurologic symptoms

Topics & Ideas: Pharmacy & Pharmacology

  • The impact of medication adherence on patient outcomes in cystic fibrosis
  • The use of personalized medicine in the management of chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease
  • The effects of pharmacogenomics on drug response and toxicity in cancer patients
  • The role of pharmacists in the management of chronic pain in primary care
  • The impact of drug-drug interactions on patient mental health outcomes
  • The use of telepharmacy in healthcare: Present status and future potential
  • The effects of herbal and dietary supplements on drug efficacy and toxicity
  • The role of pharmacists in the management of type 1 diabetes
  • The impact of medication errors on patient outcomes and satisfaction
  • The use of technology in medication management in the USA
  • The effects of smoking on drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics: A case study of clozapine
  • Leveraging the role of pharmacists in preventing and managing opioid use disorder
  • The impact of the opioid epidemic on public health in a developing country
  • The use of biosimilars in the management of the skin condition psoriasis
  • The effects of the Affordable Care Act on medication utilization and patient outcomes in African Americans

Topics & Ideas: Public Health

  • The impact of the built environment and urbanisation on physical activity and obesity
  • The effects of food insecurity on health outcomes in Zimbabwe
  • The role of community-based participatory research in addressing health disparities
  • The impact of social determinants of health, such as racism, on population health
  • The effects of heat waves on public health
  • The role of telehealth in addressing healthcare access and equity in South America
  • The impact of gun violence on public health in South Africa
  • The effects of chlorofluorocarbons air pollution on respiratory health
  • The role of public health interventions in reducing health disparities in the USA
  • The impact of the United States Affordable Care Act on access to healthcare and health outcomes
  • The effects of water insecurity on health outcomes in the Middle East
  • The role of community health workers in addressing healthcare access and equity in low-income countries
  • The impact of mass incarceration on public health and behavioural health of a community
  • The effects of floods on public health and healthcare systems
  • The role of social media in public health communication and behaviour change in adolescents

Examples: Healthcare Dissertation & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a healthcare-related research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses to see how this all comes together.

Below, we’ve included a selection of research projects from various healthcare-related degree programs to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

  • Improving Follow-Up Care for Homeless Populations in North County San Diego (Sanchez, 2021)
  • On the Incentives of Medicare’s Hospital Reimbursement and an Examination of Exchangeability (Elzinga, 2016)
  • Managing the healthcare crisis: the career narratives of nurses (Krueger, 2021)
  • Methods for preventing central line-associated bloodstream infection in pediatric haematology-oncology patients: A systematic literature review (Balkan, 2020)
  • Farms in Healthcare: Enhancing Knowledge, Sharing, and Collaboration (Garramone, 2019)
  • When machine learning meets healthcare: towards knowledge incorporation in multimodal healthcare analytics (Yuan, 2020)
  • Integrated behavioural healthcare: The future of rural mental health (Fox, 2019)
  • Healthcare service use patterns among autistic adults: A systematic review with narrative synthesis (Gilmore, 2021)
  • Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Combatting Burnout and Compassionate Fatigue among Mental Health Caregivers (Lundquist, 2022)
  • Transgender and gender-diverse people’s perceptions of gender-inclusive healthcare access and associated hope for the future (Wille, 2021)
  • Efficient Neural Network Synthesis and Its Application in Smart Healthcare (Hassantabar, 2022)
  • The Experience of Female Veterans and Health-Seeking Behaviors (Switzer, 2022)
  • Machine learning applications towards risk prediction and cost forecasting in healthcare (Singh, 2022)
  • Does Variation in the Nursing Home Inspection Process Explain Disparity in Regulatory Outcomes? (Fox, 2020)

Looking at these titles, you can probably pick up that the research topics here are quite specific and narrowly-focused , compared to the generic ones presented earlier. This is an important thing to keep in mind as you develop your own research topic. That is to say, to create a top-notch research topic, you must be precise and target a specific context with specific variables of interest . In other words, you need to identify a clear, well-justified research gap.

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19 Comments

Mabel Allison

I need topics that will match the Msc program am running in healthcare research please

Theophilus Ugochuku

Hello Mabel,

I can help you with a good topic, kindly provide your email let’s have a good discussion on this.

sneha ramu

Can you provide some research topics and ideas on Immunology?

Julia

Thank you to create new knowledge on research problem verse research topic

Help on problem statement on teen pregnancy

Derek Jansen

This post might be useful: https://gradcoach.com/research-problem-statement/

JACQUELINE CAGURANGAN RUMA

can you give me research titles that i can conduct as a school nurse

vera akinyi akinyi vera

can you provide me with a research topic on healthcare related topics to a qqi level 5 student

Didjatou tao

Please can someone help me with research topics in public health ?

Gurtej singh Dhillon

Hello I have requirement of Health related latest research issue/topics for my social media speeches. If possible pls share health issues , diagnosis, treatment.

Chikalamba Muzyamba

I would like a topic thought around first-line support for Gender-Based Violence for survivors or one related to prevention of Gender-Based Violence

Evans Amihere

Please can I be helped with a master’s research topic in either chemical pathology or hematology or immunology? thanks

Patrick

Can u please provide me with a research topic on occupational health and safety at the health sector

Biyama Chama Reuben

Good day kindly help provide me with Ph.D. Public health topics on Reproductive and Maternal Health, interventional studies on Health Education

dominic muema

may you assist me with a good easy healthcare administration study topic

Precious

May you assist me in finding a research topic on nutrition,physical activity and obesity. On the impact on children

Isaac D Olorunisola

I have been racking my brain for a while on what topic will be suitable for my PhD in health informatics. I want a qualitative topic as this is my strong area.

LEBOGANG

Hi, may I please be assisted with research topics in the medical laboratory sciences

FELICIA ADERONKE

How do i frame a qualitative topic that will be suitable for the use of calibrated drape among midwifes. this is a thesis for my master programme in midwifery education.

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how to choose research proposal topic

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FASB proposes changes to hedge accounting guidance

Defining Issues | September 2024

The proposed ASU is intended to improve alignment of hedge accounting guidance with risk management activities.

woman regarding window

The proposed ASU is in response to stakeholder feedback from implementing ASU 2017-12 and the effects of LIBOR cessation. Its main proposals would (1) provide new alternatives for hedging forecasted purchases and sales of non-financial assets, (2) allow more individual forecasted transactions to be hedged as a group and (3) provide specific guidance for hedging ‘choose-your-rate’ debt instruments. 

Applicability

Proposed ASU

  • All entities that elect to apply hedge accounting

Relevant dates

  • September 25, 2024 – FASB issued proposed ASU
  • November 25, 2024 – Comments due on proposed ASU

Key impacts

The main proposals are related to cash flow hedging and are as follows:

Nonfinancial component hedges

  • Permit an entity to designate a variable risk component of the forecasted purchase or sale of a nonfinancial asset if the component is clearly and closely related to the nonfinancial asset being purchased or sold.

Groups of forecasted transactions – similar risk exposure

  • Allow individual forecasted transactions to be hedged in a group if they have a similar risk exposure and explicitly permit interest payments (receipts) based on different interest rate indexes in the same group.
  • Provide guidance for determining whether individual transactions have similar risk exposure.

Change in hedged risk for ‘choose-your-rate’ debt instruments

  • Limit the ability to change the hedged risk in a cash flow hedging relationship to hedges of interest payments (receipts) on variable-rate debt instruments with contractual terms that permit the borrower to change the interest rate index and/or tenor (‘choose-your-rate’ debt instruments).
  • Provide a revised model that allows entities to continue hedge accounting even after the borrower changes to a new interest rate index and/or tenor for choose-your-rate debt instruments and to apply certain simplifying assumptions. 

Download the document:

FASB proposal

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