What Is a Research Proposal: A Detailed Guide

A research proposal is a detailed document that outlines the research you plan to conduct. It serves as a plan for your dissertation, guiding your methodology, data collection, and analysis. Here’s what to include:

1. Introduction

Provide background information on the topic, and explain why it is important. State your research question and hypothesis.

2. Literature Review

Summarize relevant studies and research to show the context of your work. Identify gaps that your research will address.

3. Research Methodology

Describe how you will conduct the research. Include the design, sampling, data collection methods, and analysis techniques you will use.

4. Timeline

Provide an outline of your research schedule, including key milestones and deadlines for each stage of your research.

5. Significance

Explain the expected outcomes of your research and how they will contribute to the field.

6. References

Include a list of the sources you referenced in your proposal, formatted according to the appropriate citation style.

Final Submission Checklist | Dissertation & Thesis

Before submitting your dissertation or thesis, ensure that you’ve completed all the necessary steps:

1. Formatting

Ensure that your dissertation follows all formatting requirements (e.g., font size, margins, spacing, headings, and referencing style).

2. Proofreading

Thoroughly proofread for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and consistency in style and tone.

3. References and Citations

Double-check that all references are cited properly and that the bibliography is formatted correctly.

4. Appendices and Additional Material

Include all necessary supplementary materials, such as raw data, questionnaires, and interview transcripts.

5. Advisor Approval

Ensure that your advisor has reviewed and approved the final version of your dissertation.

6. Final Check of the Title Page

Make sure the title page includes all required details, such as your name, title of the dissertation, institution, and date of submission.