proposal template. - Ohio State 4-H

The statement describes the significance of the problem(s), referring to appropriate studies or
statistics.
4. Background (including Literature Review): (a) make clear what the research problem is and
exactly what has been accomplished; (b) give evidence of the researcher’s competence in the
field; and (c) define why the previous work needs to be continued. The literature review should
be selective and critical. Discussions of work done by others should lead the reviewer to a clear
impression of how the proposed research will be build upon what has already been done and how
it differs from theirs.
5. Description of Proposed Research (including Method or Approach): A comprehensive
explanation of the proposed research; (a) be realistic about what can be accomplished; (b) be
explicit about any assumptions or hypotheses the research method rests upon; (c) be clear about
the focus of the research; (d) be as detailed as possible about the schedule of the proposed work;
(e) be specific about the means of evaluating the data or the conclusions; and (f) be certain that
the connection between the research objectives and the research method is evident
6. Description of Relevant Institutional Resources: Detail the resources available to the
proposed project and, if possible, identify why the sponsor should select this investigator for this
particular research.
7. List of References: Include a brief bibliography.
8. Personnel: This section consists of two parts: (a) an explanation of the proposed personnel
arrangements; and (b) a biographical one page sheet for each of the main contributors to the
project. Specify how many persons at what percentage of time and in what categories will be
participating in the project. Any student participation, paid or unpaid, should be included, and the
nature of the proposed contribution detailed.
9. Budget: The budget delineates the costs to be met by the funding source, including personnel,
non-personnel, administrative, and overhead expenses. Also specify items paid for by other
funding sources. Include justification for expenditures though a budget narrative.
Resource for Development of this Proposal Application:
“Writing a Research Proposal”
http://www.library.illinois.edu/learn/research/proposal.html
Accessed 12-3-2012