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Top 10 Ways to Write a Survey Research Proposal with Samples and Examples

Mohammed Sameer

Research proposals are nerve-racking, notoriously challenging to write, and can skyrocket your academic career. Does that sound frightening? You bet! This blog will assist you in writing an effective survey research proposal .

The biggest challenge of actualizing a well-thought-out survey research proposal is “no funding.”

How will you persuade decision-makers to fund your research? Your quick answer: A survey research proposal template. The problem is…

You cannot just write a proposal; it must be flawless, especially now that the world has reopened and thousands of talented researchers are competing for positions.

How do you craft a proposal to help you outperform the competition? Spend 10 minutes reading this blog, and you'll know how to do it.

Before we sprint to the heart of the subject, let's establish some basics.

What is a Research Proposal?

A research proposal is a formal educational document. It outlines your research project and requests funding or agreement to supervise your project.

The primary goal of a research proposal is to explain what you intend to study and why it is worth looking into. Most research proposals are used in academia or by non-academic scientific organizations.

Of course, no two research proposals are the same, and they can vary greatly depending on your study level, field, or project specifics.

Still, there are certain general requirements that all significant proposals must meet, and the format that is non-negotiable.

Alright, we finished the theoretical part. It's time to get some practice!

Here's How to Write a Survey Research Proposal With Templates

1. write an introduction to present the subject of your research.

"Wow, I cannot wait to see how this study turns out!"

This is the type of response you want for your research proposal introduction.

How can that be accomplished? Structure your research proposal introduction around the following four key issues:

• What is the research question?
• Who is this issue important to (the general public, fellow researchers, specialized professionals, etc.)?
• What is currently known about the problem, and what key pieces of information are missing?
• Why should anyone be concerned about the outcomes?

The simplest way to write an engaging introduction to a research proposal is to use our pre-designed PPT Template.

Sample Survey Research Proposal Template

2. Explain the Context and Background

This section is optional, depending on how detailed your proposal is. It is usually added if the research problem at hand is complex. It is titled "Background and Importance" or "Rationale."

The introduction will include most of the factual background for shorter proposals.

How do you write the "Background" section of a research proposal?

• Describe the broader research area in which your project fits.
• Emphasize the gaps in existing studies and explain why they must be filled. 
• Demonstrate how your research will add to existing knowledge.
• Explain your hypothesis and its rationale.
• Determine the scope of your research (in other words, explain what the research is not about).
• Finally, showcase the significance of your research and the benefits it can provide. In other words, respond to the dreaded "So what?" question.

If your research project is technical and complex, describing the background in a separate section is especially beneficial. It makes your introduction follow a free-flowing, "significant" narrative while letting the "Background" section do the heavy lifting.

If you encounter profound scientific discoveries while conducting your research, you’ll need additional help highlighting them. Here are the top 25 scientific PPT Templates to present your new findings .

3. Provide a Detailed Literature Review

The most critical (and the most challenging) section of the entire document is tackled here. 

One in which you must demonstrate that you know everything there is to know about your subject of interest and that your research will help advance the entire field of study.

The section on Literature Review is essentially a mini-dissertation. It must follow a logical progression and present the case for your study about previous research: Explain and summarize what has already been discussed, and show that your research goes beyond that.

If there are some statistics you want to highlight here, you’ll need these 25 ways to show statistics in a presentation .

It may be difficult to discuss all the existing research on your subject in the Literature Review. In today's digital age of easy access to information, be selective about which studies or papers you include.

The difficult part? DONE. (No, it truly is.) Everything that follows is a matter of formalities and technicalities. If they're already sold onto your vision, you must show them how you intend to accomplish your goals.

4. List Your Key Aims and Objectives

This section is called "Research Questions" or "Aims and Objectives." It should be brief compared to the previous slides.

The formal requirements of the institution you're applying to dictate: 

• Whether you need to write about your goals and objectives, or 
• Formulate them as research questions.

The key to mastering this section is distinguishing between an aim, an objective, and a research question.

Here's another practical example to help you understand.

5. Outline the Research Methods and Design

The funding authorities already know what you're attempting to accomplish and have a general idea of how you intend to deliver results. This section demonstrates that you are adequately prepared (in terms of both skills and resources) to conduct the research.

The principal goal is to persuade the reader that your methods are suitable and appropriate for the specific topic.

Do you know why "specific" is in bold? It is one of the parts of a research proposal that varies the most between documents. There is an ideal methodology for every academic project, and no two research designs are alike. Check that your methodology corresponds to all of your desired outcomes.

After all, you know your project better than anyone else. You'll have to make a decision about which methods are best.

You can support your bet with an effective fact sheet you can build using these top 15 PPT Templates .

Here’s a sample template for you.

6. Discuss Ethical Considerations

No, this is not an optional step. If you're researching the vector shapes of tree leaf shadows (yes, it's a legitimate research topic), there won't be many ethical issues to consider.

However, if your research involves humans, particularly in fields such as medicine or psychology, ethical issues are bound to arise.

You must take extra precautions to protect your participants' rights, obtain their explicit consent to process data, and consult the research project with the authorities of your academic institution. For this purpose, your proposal must include detailed information on these topics.

7. Present Preliminary or Desired Implications and Contribution to Knowledge

It is the final argument in your proposal to persuade decision-makers to support your project. You've already stated what the scope of your project will be. You have described the current state of knowledge and highlighted the most significant gaps. You have told them what you want to learn and how you intend to do it.

Now, discuss the actual, measurable difference your discovery can make and how your research can impact the future of the field or even a specific niche.

8. Detail Your Budget and Funding Requirements

If you already have a supervisor (s), you should discuss this section with them. They've most likely submitted similar documents to the institution you're contacting. They can also provide insights into how much you can realistically expect to be paid.

Note: If possible, leave yourself some wiggle room and request a conditional extra allowance.

9. Provide a Timetable

Detailing a timeline in a proposal for a standalone project can help support your budget. The most common format is, as you might expect, a table. Divide your research into stages, list the actions you'll need to take at each stage in bullet points, and set tentative deadlines.

It prevents you from derailing your project.

We have an editable TOC template you can use to define your timetable.

10. End with a List of Citations

Citations in research proposals can take the form of references (which include only the pieces of literature you cited) or a bibliography (everything that you consulted for your proposal).

Double-check with them or consult your supervisor on the format.

The same is true for referencing style. Most universities in the United States use APA or Chicago Style, but each has its own set of rules and preferences. Check the list of guidelines on their website for confirmation. When in doubt, contact the head of the department with which you want to work.

Here’s an editable template you can use to include citations.

FAQs on Survey Research Proposal

What is an example of survey research.

Assume a researcher wants to learn about teenagers' eating habits. In that case, they will follow a group of teenagers for an extended period to ensure that the data gathered is reliable. A longitudinal study is frequently followed by cross-sectional survey research.

In a longitudinal study, researchers examine the same individuals repeatedly to detect any changes that may occur over time. Longitudinal studies are essentially correlational research in which researchers observe and collect data on several variables without attempting to influence them.

A cross-sectional study is a type of research design where data is collected from many people at once. In cross-sectional research, variables are observed without being influenced.

What should a survey proposal include?

The proposal should present your research methodology, with specific examples demonstrating how you will conduct your research (e.g., techniques, sample size, target populations, equipment, data analysis, etc.). Your methods could include going to specific libraries or archives, fieldwork, or conducting interviews.

What are the three types of survey research?

Most research can be classified into three types: exploratory , descriptive , and causal . Each serves a distinct purpose and can only be used in specific ways.

Exploratory Research

Any marketing or business strategy should include exploratory research. Its emphasis is on the discovery of ideas and insights rather than the collection of statistically accurate data. As a result, exploratory research is best suited as the first step in your overall research plan. It is most commonly used to define company issues, potential growth areas, alternative courses of action, and prioritizing areas that require statistical research.

Descriptive Research

Descriptive research accounts for most online surveying and is considered conclusive due to its quantitative nature. In contrast to exploratory research, descriptive research is planned and structured for the information gathered to be statistically inferred from a population.

Causal Research

Causal research, like descriptive research, is quantitative, preplanned, and structured in design. As a result, it is also regarded as conclusive research. Causal research differs from other types of research in that it attempts to explain the cause-and-effect relationship between variables. It differs from descriptive research's observational style in that it uses experimentation to determine whether a relationship is causal.

What is the aim of survey research?

Historically, survey research has included large amounts of population-based data collection. The primary goal of this type of survey research was to quickly obtain information describing the features of a large sample of individuals of interest. 

Over To You

Writing a research proposal can be difficult and time-consuming, and it's not that different from writing a thesis or dissertation.

Yes, this is our roundabout way of saying: Don't give up. Invest adequate time to complete your presentation using our actionable survey research proposal templates. When in doubt, reach out to senior researchers for assistance.

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Survey Research: Design and Presentation

• Planning a Thesis Proposal
• Introduction to Survey Research Design
• Literature Review: Definition and Context
• Slides, Articles
• Evaluating Survey Results
• Related Library Databases

The goal of a proposal is to demonstrate that you are ready to start your research project by presenting a distinct idea, question or issue which has great interest for you, along with the method you have chosen to explore it.

The process of developing your research question is related to the literature review. As you discover more from your research, your question will be shaped by what you find.

The clarity of your idea dictates the plan for your dissertation or thesis work. 

From the University of North Texas faculty member Dr. Abraham Benavides:

Elements of a Thesis Proposal

(Adapted from the Department of Communication,  University of Washington)

Dissertation proposals vary but most share the following elements, though not necessarily in this order.

1. The Introduction

In three paragraphs to three or four pages very simply introduce your question. Use a narrative to style to engage readers.  A well-known issue in your field, controversy surrounding some texts, or the policy implications of your topic are some ways to add context to the proposal.

2. Research Questions

State your question early in your proposal. Even if you are going to restate your research questionas part of the literature review, you may wish to mention it briefly at the end of the introduction.

Make sure if you have questions which follow from your main question that this is clearly indicated. The research questions should include any boundaries you have placed on your inquiry, for instance time, place, and topics. Terms with unusual meanings should be defined. 

3. Literature Synthesis or Review

The proposal must be described within the broader body of scholarship around the topic. This is part of establishing the significance of your research. The discussion of the literature typically shows how your project will extend what’s already known.

In writing your literature review, think about the important theories and concepts related to your project and organize your discussion accordingly; you usually want to avoid a strictly chronological discussion (i.e., earliest study, next study, etc.).

What research is directly related to your topic? Discuss it thoroughly.

What literature provides context for your research? Discuss it briefly.

In your proposal you should avoid writing a genealogy of your field’s research. For instance, you don’t need to tell your committee about the development of research in the entire field in order to justify the particular project you propose. Instead, isolate the major areas of research within your field that are relevant to your project.

4. Significance of your Research Question

Good proposals leave readers with a clear understanding of the dissertation project’s overall significance. Consider the following:

• advancing theoretical understandings 
• introducing new interpretations
• analyzing the relationship between variables 
• testing a theory 
• replicating earlier studies 
• exploring the whether earlier findings can be demonstrated to hold true in new times, places, or circumstances 
• refining a method of inquiry.

5. Research Method

The research method that will be used involves three levels of concern:

• overall research design
• delineation of the method
• procedures for executing it.

At the outset you have to show that your overall design is appropriate for the questions you’re posing. 

Next, you need to outline your specific research method. What data will you analyze? 

How will you collect the data? Supervisors sometimes expect proposals to sketch instruments (e.g., coding sheets, questionnaires, protocols) central to the project. 

Third, what procedures will you follow as you conduct your research? What will you do with your data? A key here is your plan for analyzing data. You want to gather data in a form in which you can analyze it. [In this case the method is a survey administered to a group of people]. If appropriate, you should indicate what rules for interpretation or what kinds of statistical tests that you’ll use.

6. Tentative Dissertation Outline

Give your committee a sense of how your thesis will be organized. You can write a short (two- or three-sentence) paragraph summarizing what you expect to include in each section of the thesis.

7. Tentative Schedule for Completion

Be realistic in projecting your timeline. Don’t forget to include time for human subjects review, if appropriate .

8. References

If you didn’t use footnotes or endnotes throughout, you should include a list of references to the literature cited in the proposal.

9. Selected Bibliography of Other Sources

You might want to append a more extensive bibliography (check with your supervisor). If you include one, you might want to divide it into several subsections, for instance by concept, topic or field.

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Research Proposal: What it is + Free Guide

The success of your project, your team, and your financial future is dependent on the success of your research proposal. In some instances, it will assist in obtaining funding in your chosen field of study, while in other cases, it may facilitate your receiving a grant or funding.

The following article is designed to help you provide your decision-makers with the best research proposal strategy.

What is a Research Proposal?

A Research Proposal is an outline and overview of the research you intend to conduct. Its goal is t o establish expertise and support your proposed area of research in shaping the assessment of your application. Your research proposal is just the beginning of your research project. Over time, your ideas will grow and develop.

Benefits of writing a well-designed research proposal

The purpose of a research proposal is to inform your client or end-user of the significance of your research . It will also provide the following benefits:

• Show that your project is important and of high quality and that you are capable of completing the research.
• Provide an opportunity for you to think through your research project, refine your focus, and anticipate any challenges that may arise. 
• You may want to review your proposal at different stages of your research process .

to remind yourself of your focus and to chart how your project has progressed.

How to write a Research Proposal 

What to include in the proposal:.

Provide a brief and concise overview of the survey in your introduction. Identify the survey topic, the data sought, and the target. Additionally, the introduction should describe the purpose of the survey, how the results will be used, how the volunteers or paid respondents will be contacted, and how many people will be contacted.

Include the dates on which the survey will begin and end. It should also be noted whether the identities of the participants will also be revealed with the results. The proposal should include a copy of the survey.

This will give the relevant authority or review committee that will be approving or disapproving the survey the opportunity to analyze the survey intent in detail. In the event that the results are subject to sampling errors , specify how the data will be handled.

1. Specificity Is Key

Imagine a professor of neurology heading a research group that wants to survey college students’ sleeping habits and needs 100 volunteers to complete five short questions. Researchers could contact students on campus to recruit participants. The survey proposal would include detailed information on what the neurology team is trying to learn, including information on why the survey is important, such as citing prior research in the field.

2. Provide Contact Information

A survey proposal should identify the surveyors involved and include the name of the person who will handle the proposal. In addition, a description of the manner in which participants will be contacted (by telephone, email, or in-person) should be included.

3. Example of an outline for a survey research proposal

It is important to structure your Survey Proposal Outline so that it provides structure to your reader, addressing your problem statement or main point of the study.

Describe your objectives, research methodology, research activities, and a timeline similar to what follows.

What Not To Do While Writing A Research Proposal

• The topic of your research cannot be generic. It has to be concise and to the point.
• Not explaining the need for your study: If anyone has to invest anything into your research, you’ll need to sell it.
• Having impractical goals or suggestions without any backing.
• Have poor theory and knowledge of the subject.
• Use outdated material and data sources as reference points.
• Poor grammar and poor presentation skills for your idea

LEARN ABOUT: Theoretical Research

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Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches

Student resources, research proposal tools and sample student proposals.

Sample research proposals written by doctoral students in each of the key areas covered in Research Design --quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods—are provided as a useful reference. A Research Proposal checklist also serves to help guide your own proposal-writing.

›   Morales Proposal_Qualitative Study

›   Kottich Proposal_Quantitative Study

›   Guetterman Proposal_Mixed Methods Study

›   Research Proposal Checklist  

Research Proposal Example/Sample

Detailed Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template

If you’re getting started crafting your research proposal and are looking for a few examples of research proposals , you’ve come to the right place.

In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals , one for a Master’s-level project, and one for a PhD-level dissertation. We also start off by unpacking our free research proposal template and discussing the four core sections of a research proposal, so that you have a clear understanding of the basics before diving into the actual proposals.

• Research proposal example/sample – Master’s-level (PDF/Word)
• Research proposal example/sample – PhD-level (PDF/Word)
• Proposal template (Fully editable) 

If you’re working on a research proposal for a dissertation or thesis, you may also find the following useful:

• Research Proposal Bootcamp : Learn how to write a research proposal as efficiently and effectively as possible
• 1:1 Proposal Coaching : Get hands-on help with your research proposal

PS – If you’re working on a dissertation, be sure to also check out our collection of dissertation and thesis examples here .

FAQ: Research Proposal Example

Research proposal example: frequently asked questions, are the sample proposals real.

Yes. The proposals are real and were approved by the respective universities.

Can I copy one of these proposals for my own research?

As we discuss in the video, every research proposal will be slightly different, depending on the university’s unique requirements, as well as the nature of the research itself. Therefore, you’ll need to tailor your research proposal to suit your specific context.

You can learn more about the basics of writing a research proposal here .

How do I get the research proposal template?

You can access our free proposal template here .

Is the proposal template really free?

Yes. There is no cost for the proposal template and you are free to use it as a foundation for your research proposal.

Where can I learn more about proposal writing?

For self-directed learners, our Research Proposal Bootcamp is a great starting point.

For students that want hands-on guidance, our private coaching service is recommended.

Psst… there’s more!

This post is an extract from our bestselling short course, Research Proposal Bootcamp . If you want to work smart, you don't want to miss this .

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• How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

Published on 30 October 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on 13 June 2023.

A research proposal describes what you will investigate, why it’s important, and how you will conduct your research.

The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements:

Introduction

Literature review.

• Research design

Reference list

While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping you get organised and feel confident in the path forward you choose to take.

Table of contents

Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, frequently asked questions.

Academics often have to write research proposals to get funding for their projects. As a student, you might have to write a research proposal as part of a grad school application , or prior to starting your thesis or dissertation .

In addition to helping you figure out what your research can look like, a proposal can also serve to demonstrate why your project is worth pursuing to a funder, educational institution, or supervisor.

Research proposal length

The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.

One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.

Download our research proposal template

Prevent plagiarism, run a free check.

Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.

• Example research proposal #1: ‘A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management’
• Example research proposal #2: ‘ Medical Students as Mediators of Change in Tobacco Use’

Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:

• The proposed title of your project
• Your supervisor’s name
• Your institution and department

The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.

Your introduction should:

• Introduce your topic
• Give necessary background and context
• Outline your  problem statement  and research questions

To guide your introduction , include information about:

• Who could have an interest in the topic (e.g., scientists, policymakers)
• How much is already known about the topic
• What is missing from this current knowledge
• What new insights your research will contribute
• Why you believe this research is worth doing

As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review  shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.

In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:

• Comparing and contrasting the main theories, methods, and debates
• Examining the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches
• Explaining how will you build on, challenge, or synthesise prior scholarship

Following the literature review, restate your main  objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.

To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasise again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.

For example, your results might have implications for:

• Improving best practices
• Informing policymaking decisions
• Strengthening a theory or model
• Challenging popular or scientific beliefs
• Creating a basis for future research

Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .

Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.

Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.

Download our research schedule template

If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.

Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:

• Cost : exactly how much money do you need?
• Justification : why is this cost necessary to complete the research?
• Source : how did you calculate the amount?

To determine your budget, think about:

• Travel costs : do you need to go somewhere to collect your data? How will you get there, and how much time will you need? What will you do there (e.g., interviews, archival research)?
• Materials : do you need access to any tools or technologies?
• Help : do you need to hire any research assistants for the project? What will they do, and how much will you pay them?

Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement.

Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.

I will compare …

A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.

Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.

Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.

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17 Research Proposal Examples

A research proposal systematically and transparently outlines a proposed research project.

The purpose of a research proposal is to demonstrate a project’s viability and the researcher’s preparedness to conduct an academic study. It serves as a roadmap for the researcher.

The process holds value both externally (for accountability purposes and often as a requirement for a grant application) and intrinsic value (for helping the researcher to clarify the mechanics, purpose, and potential signficance of the study).

Key sections of a research proposal include: the title, abstract, introduction, literature review, research design and methods, timeline, budget, outcomes and implications, references, and appendix. Each is briefly explained below.

Watch my Guide: How to Write a Research Proposal

Get your Template for Writing your Research Proposal Here (With AI Prompts!)

Research Proposal Sample Structure

Title: The title should present a concise and descriptive statement that clearly conveys the core idea of the research projects. Make it as specific as possible. The reader should immediately be able to grasp the core idea of the intended research project. Often, the title is left too vague and does not help give an understanding of what exactly the study looks at.

Abstract: Abstracts are usually around 250-300 words and provide an overview of what is to follow – including the research problem , objectives, methods, expected outcomes, and significance of the study. Use it as a roadmap and ensure that, if the abstract is the only thing someone reads, they’ll get a good fly-by of what will be discussed in the peice.

Introduction: Introductions are all about contextualization. They often set the background information with a statement of the problem. At the end of the introduction, the reader should understand what the rationale for the study truly is. I like to see the research questions or hypotheses included in the introduction and I like to get a good understanding of what the significance of the research will be. It’s often easiest to write the introduction last

Literature Review: The literature review dives deep into the existing literature on the topic, demosntrating your thorough understanding of the existing literature including themes, strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in the literature. It serves both to demonstrate your knowledge of the field and, to demonstrate how the proposed study will fit alongside the literature on the topic. A good literature review concludes by clearly demonstrating how your research will contribute something new and innovative to the conversation in the literature.

Research Design and Methods: This section needs to clearly demonstrate how the data will be gathered and analyzed in a systematic and academically sound manner. Here, you need to demonstrate that the conclusions of your research will be both valid and reliable. Common points discussed in the research design and methods section include highlighting the research paradigm, methodologies, intended population or sample to be studied, data collection techniques, and data analysis procedures . Toward the end of this section, you are encouraged to also address ethical considerations and limitations of the research process , but also to explain why you chose your research design and how you are mitigating the identified risks and limitations.

Timeline: Provide an outline of the anticipated timeline for the study. Break it down into its various stages (including data collection, data analysis, and report writing). The goal of this section is firstly to establish a reasonable breakdown of steps for you to follow and secondly to demonstrate to the assessors that your project is practicable and feasible.

Budget: Estimate the costs associated with the research project and include evidence for your estimations. Typical costs include staffing costs, equipment, travel, and data collection tools. When applying for a scholarship, the budget should demonstrate that you are being responsible with your expensive and that your funding application is reasonable.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: A discussion of the anticipated findings or results of the research, as well as the potential contributions to the existing knowledge, theory, or practice in the field. This section should also address the potential impact of the research on relevant stakeholders and any broader implications for policy or practice.

References: A complete list of all the sources cited in the research proposal, formatted according to the required citation style. This demonstrates the researcher’s familiarity with the relevant literature and ensures proper attribution of ideas and information.

Appendices (if applicable): Any additional materials, such as questionnaires, interview guides, or consent forms, that provide further information or support for the research proposal. These materials should be included as appendices at the end of the document.

Research Proposal Examples

Research proposals often extend anywhere between 2,000 and 15,000 words in length. The following snippets are samples designed to briefly demonstrate what might be discussed in each section.

1. Education Studies Research Proposals

See some real sample pieces:

• Assessment of the perceptions of teachers towards a new grading system
• Does ICT use in secondary classrooms help or hinder student learning?
• Digital technologies in focus project
• Urban Middle School Teachers’ Experiences of the Implementation of
• Restorative Justice Practices
• Experiences of students of color in service learning

Consider this hypothetical education research proposal:

The Impact of Game-Based Learning on Student Engagement and Academic Performance in Middle School Mathematics

Abstract: The proposed study will explore multiplayer game-based learning techniques in middle school mathematics curricula and their effects on student engagement. The study aims to contribute to the current literature on game-based learning by examining the effects of multiplayer gaming in learning.

Introduction: Digital game-based learning has long been shunned within mathematics education for fears that it may distract students or lower the academic integrity of the classrooms. However, there is emerging evidence that digital games in math have emerging benefits not only for engagement but also academic skill development. Contributing to this discourse, this study seeks to explore the potential benefits of multiplayer digital game-based learning by examining its impact on middle school students’ engagement and academic performance in a mathematics class.

Literature Review: The literature review has identified gaps in the current knowledge, namely, while game-based learning has been extensively explored, the role of multiplayer games in supporting learning has not been studied.

Research Design and Methods: This study will employ a mixed-methods research design based upon action research in the classroom. A quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test control group design will first be used to compare the academic performance and engagement of middle school students exposed to game-based learning techniques with those in a control group receiving instruction without the aid of technology. Students will also be observed and interviewed in regard to the effect of communication and collaboration during gameplay on their learning.

Timeline: The study will take place across the second term of the school year with a pre-test taking place on the first day of the term and the post-test taking place on Wednesday in Week 10.

Budget: The key budgetary requirements will be the technologies required, including the subscription cost for the identified games and computers.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: It is expected that the findings will contribute to the current literature on game-based learning and inform educational practices, providing educators and policymakers with insights into how to better support student achievement in mathematics.

2. Psychology Research Proposals

See some real examples:

• A situational analysis of shared leadership in a self-managing team
• The effect of musical preference on running performance
• Relationship between self-esteem and disordered eating amongst adolescent females

Consider this hypothetical psychology research proposal:

The Effects of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Stress Reduction in College Students

Abstract: This research proposal examines the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on stress reduction among college students, using a pre-test/post-test experimental design with both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods .

Introduction: College students face heightened stress levels during exam weeks. This can affect both mental health and test performance. This study explores the potential benefits of mindfulness-based interventions such as meditation as a way to mediate stress levels in the weeks leading up to exam time.

Literature Review: Existing research on mindfulness-based meditation has shown the ability for mindfulness to increase metacognition, decrease anxiety levels, and decrease stress. Existing literature has looked at workplace, high school and general college-level applications. This study will contribute to the corpus of literature by exploring the effects of mindfulness directly in the context of exam weeks.

Research Design and Methods: Participants ( n= 234 ) will be randomly assigned to either an experimental group, receiving 5 days per week of 10-minute mindfulness-based interventions, or a control group, receiving no intervention. Data will be collected through self-report questionnaires, measuring stress levels, semi-structured interviews exploring participants’ experiences, and students’ test scores.

Timeline: The study will begin three weeks before the students’ exam week and conclude after each student’s final exam. Data collection will occur at the beginning (pre-test of self-reported stress levels) and end (post-test) of the three weeks.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: The study aims to provide evidence supporting the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing stress among college students in the lead up to exams, with potential implications for mental health support and stress management programs on college campuses.

3. Sociology Research Proposals

• Understanding emerging social movements: A case study of ‘Jersey in Transition’
• The interaction of health, education and employment in Western China
• Can we preserve lower-income affordable neighbourhoods in the face of rising costs?

Consider this hypothetical sociology research proposal:

The Impact of Social Media Usage on Interpersonal Relationships among Young Adults

Abstract: This research proposal investigates the effects of social media usage on interpersonal relationships among young adults, using a longitudinal mixed-methods approach with ongoing semi-structured interviews to collect qualitative data.

Introduction: Social media platforms have become a key medium for the development of interpersonal relationships, particularly for young adults. This study examines the potential positive and negative effects of social media usage on young adults’ relationships and development over time.

Literature Review: A preliminary review of relevant literature has demonstrated that social media usage is central to development of a personal identity and relationships with others with similar subcultural interests. However, it has also been accompanied by data on mental health deline and deteriorating off-screen relationships. The literature is to-date lacking important longitudinal data on these topics.

Research Design and Methods: Participants ( n = 454 ) will be young adults aged 18-24. Ongoing self-report surveys will assess participants’ social media usage, relationship satisfaction, and communication patterns. A subset of participants will be selected for longitudinal in-depth interviews starting at age 18 and continuing for 5 years.

Timeline: The study will be conducted over a period of five years, including recruitment, data collection, analysis, and report writing.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: This study aims to provide insights into the complex relationship between social media usage and interpersonal relationships among young adults, potentially informing social policies and mental health support related to social media use.

4. Nursing Research Proposals

• Does Orthopaedic Pre-assessment clinic prepare the patient for admission to hospital?
• Nurses’ perceptions and experiences of providing psychological care to burns patients
• Registered psychiatric nurse’s practice with mentally ill parents and their children

Consider this hypothetical nursing research proposal:

The Influence of Nurse-Patient Communication on Patient Satisfaction and Health Outcomes following Emergency Cesarians

Abstract: This research will examines the impact of effective nurse-patient communication on patient satisfaction and health outcomes for women following c-sections, utilizing a mixed-methods approach with patient surveys and semi-structured interviews.

Introduction: It has long been known that effective communication between nurses and patients is crucial for quality care. However, additional complications arise following emergency c-sections due to the interaction between new mother’s changing roles and recovery from surgery.

Literature Review: A review of the literature demonstrates the importance of nurse-patient communication, its impact on patient satisfaction, and potential links to health outcomes. However, communication between nurses and new mothers is less examined, and the specific experiences of those who have given birth via emergency c-section are to date unexamined.

Research Design and Methods: Participants will be patients in a hospital setting who have recently had an emergency c-section. A self-report survey will assess their satisfaction with nurse-patient communication and perceived health outcomes. A subset of participants will be selected for in-depth interviews to explore their experiences and perceptions of the communication with their nurses.

Timeline: The study will be conducted over a period of six months, including rolling recruitment, data collection, analysis, and report writing within the hospital.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: This study aims to provide evidence for the significance of nurse-patient communication in supporting new mothers who have had an emergency c-section. Recommendations will be presented for supporting nurses and midwives in improving outcomes for new mothers who had complications during birth.

5. Social Work Research Proposals

• Experiences of negotiating employment and caring responsibilities of fathers post-divorce
• Exploring kinship care in the north region of British Columbia

Consider this hypothetical social work research proposal:

The Role of a Family-Centered Intervention in Preventing Homelessness Among At-Risk Youthin a working-class town in Northern England

Abstract: This research proposal investigates the effectiveness of a family-centered intervention provided by a local council area in preventing homelessness among at-risk youth. This case study will use a mixed-methods approach with program evaluation data and semi-structured interviews to collect quantitative and qualitative data .

Introduction: Homelessness among youth remains a significant social issue. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of family-centered interventions in addressing this problem and identify factors that contribute to successful prevention strategies.

Literature Review: A review of the literature has demonstrated several key factors contributing to youth homelessness including lack of parental support, lack of social support, and low levels of family involvement. It also demonstrates the important role of family-centered interventions in addressing this issue. Drawing on current evidence, this study explores the effectiveness of one such intervention in preventing homelessness among at-risk youth in a working-class town in Northern England.

Research Design and Methods: The study will evaluate a new family-centered intervention program targeting at-risk youth and their families. Quantitative data on program outcomes, including housing stability and family functioning, will be collected through program records and evaluation reports. Semi-structured interviews with program staff, participants, and relevant stakeholders will provide qualitative insights into the factors contributing to program success or failure.

Timeline: The study will be conducted over a period of six months, including recruitment, data collection, analysis, and report writing.

Budget: Expenses include access to program evaluation data, interview materials, data analysis software, and any related travel costs for in-person interviews.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: This study aims to provide evidence for the effectiveness of family-centered interventions in preventing youth homelessness, potentially informing the expansion of or necessary changes to social work practices in Northern England.

Research Proposal Template

Get your Detailed Template for Writing your Research Proposal Here (With AI Prompts!)

This is a template for a 2500-word research proposal. You may find it difficult to squeeze everything into this wordcount, but it’s a common wordcount for Honors and MA-level dissertations.

Your research proposal is where you really get going with your study. I’d strongly recommend working closely with your teacher in developing a research proposal that’s consistent with the requirements and culture of your institution, as in my experience it varies considerably. The above template is from my own courses that walk students through research proposals in a British School of Education.

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Social-Emotional Learning (Definition, Examples, Pros & Cons)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ What is Educational Psychology?
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ What is IQ? (Intelligence Quotient)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 5 Top Tips for Succeeding at University

8 thoughts on “17 Research Proposal Examples”

Very excellent research proposals

very helpful

Very helpful

Dear Sir, I need some help to write an educational research proposal. Thank you.

Hi Levi, use the site search bar to ask a question and I’ll likely have a guide already written for your specific question. Thanks for reading!

very good research proposal

Thank you so much sir! ❤️

Very helpful 👌

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Formal Review of Research Proposals

When is Formal Review Required?

Student & Campus Life research projects that will use substantial resources of the Cornell community must be formally reviewed by the committee before they can be initiated. At a minimum, this includes research that draws participants from a major institutional data base, for example, those maintained by the University Registrar; Office of the Dean of Students; Fraternity, Sorority and Independent Living; and Class Councils. Regardless of how potential participants are to be identified, research that meets the following criteria will also require formal review by the committee:

• Involves more that 100 participants for a quantitative data collection method (e.g., survey research) or 25 participants for a qualitative data collection method (e.g., focus groups or interviews);
• Is broader in scope than program evaluation (e.g., asks about more than just program-based experiences or includes individuals who did not participate in the target program or event); and
• Will require a substantial amount of participants’ time (e.g., protocols that will take more than 10 or 15 minutes to complete, or longitudinal research designs).

Conversely, research projects that are very limited in scope, and research that is conducted exclusively for program evaluation purposes (i.e., research that examines the program-related experiences of students who participate in a specific program or event) will generally be exempt from formal review by the committee.

Submitting a Proposal for Formal Review

The committee meets monthly during the fall, winter and spring semesters to formally review research proposals and conduct related business. At least eight weeks before the anticipated launch date of the project, researchers should submit a  SCLRG research proposal form to Leslie Meyerhoff or Marne Einarson . The proposal form asks for information about the purpose and proposed design of the study, as well as draft versions of data collection instruments. Samples of completed research proposals are available here and here .

The following criteria will be used by the committee to evaluate research proposals:

• Importance: Does the research address an important issue at Cornell? Will it provide useful information for academic planning or providing services to Cornell students?
• Content and Design : Does the proposed methodology fit the research question(s)? Are the questions well-constructed and easily understood? Is the instrument of reasonable length? Have the questions been pretested?
• Population and Sampling Methodology: Who is the target population? Is the sampling methodology appropriate to the research question(s)? Has the same student cohort and/or sample been used in other recent research? Could a smaller sample be drawn to achieve the same objective? How will the researcher(s) gain access to the proposed participants?
• Timing: Does the proposed timing of the research overlap with or follow closely upon other research directed toward the same population? When were data on this issue last collected at Cornell? Is the data collection period scheduled at a time when students are likely to respond?
• Data Management and Dissemination: Who will have access to the data? What are the provisions for secure storage of the data? Can data from this research be linked to other data sets? What is the plan for analyzing the data and disseminating the results? How will research results contribute to better decision making? How will research results be shared more broadly?
• Resources : What resources will be required to conduct this research (e.g., instrument design, Web application development, mail and/or e-mail services, data entry and analysis)? From where will these resources be obtained?
• Overall Impact: What will be the impact of the study? Are there any conceivable negative impacts on the University? Will the study overburden respondents? Overall, do the expected benefits of the study appear to outweigh the costs?

Based on their evaluation of the research proposal, the committee may decide to:

• Approve the project as submitted
• Approve the project with recommendations for changes that must be adopted before the project can be initiated
• Require revisions and re-submission of the project before approval is granted
• Reject the project (e.g., the potential benefits of the data do not justify the costs of collection; the research design has weaknesses that cannot be rectified)

IRB Approval

If research results will not be used exclusively for internal purposes (e.g., they will be presented or published beyond Cornell; or used for an undergraduate honors thesis, master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation), researchers may also be required to obtain approval from Cornell’s Institutional Review Board for Human Participants (IRB). IRB approval should be sought after the proposal has been reviewed by the SAS Research Group. The committee should subsequently be informed of the decision of the IRB.

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