benefits of proposed research

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
• Group Project Survival Skills
• Leading a Class Discussion
• Multiple Book Review Essay
• Reviewing Collected Works
• Writing a Case Analysis Paper
• Writing a Case Study
• About Informed Consent
• Writing Field Notes
• Writing a Policy Memo
• 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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What (Exactly) Is A Research Proposal?

A simple explainer with examples + free template.

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2020 (Updated April 2023)

Whether you’re nearing the end of your degree and your dissertation is on the horizon, or you’re planning to apply for a PhD program, chances are you’ll need to craft a convincing research proposal . If you’re on this page, you’re probably unsure exactly what the research proposal is all about. Well, you’ve come to the right place.

Overview: Research Proposal Basics

• What a research proposal is
• What a research proposal needs to cover
• How to structure your research proposal
• Example /sample proposals
• Proposal writing FAQs
• Key takeaways & additional resources

What is a research proposal?

Simply put, a research proposal is a structured, formal document that explains what you plan to research (your research topic), why it’s worth researching (your justification), and how  you plan to investigate it (your methodology). 

The purpose of the research proposal (its job, so to speak) is to convince  your research supervisor, committee or university that your research is  suitable  (for the requirements of the degree program) and  manageable  (given the time and resource constraints you will face). 

The most important word here is “ convince ” – in other words, your research proposal needs to  sell  your research idea (to whoever is going to approve it). If it doesn’t convince them (of its suitability and manageability), you’ll need to revise and resubmit . This will cost you valuable time, which will either delay the start of your research or eat into its time allowance (which is bad news). 

What goes into a research proposal?

A good dissertation or thesis proposal needs to cover the “ what “, “ why ” and” how ” of the proposed study. Let’s look at each of these attributes in a little more detail:

Your proposal needs to clearly articulate your research topic . This needs to be specific and unambiguous . Your research topic should make it clear exactly what you plan to research and in what context. Here’s an example of a well-articulated research topic:

An investigation into the factors which impact female Generation Y consumer’s likelihood to promote a specific makeup brand to their peers: a British context

As you can see, this topic is extremely clear. From this one line we can see exactly:

• What’s being investigated – factors that make people promote or advocate for a brand of a specific makeup brand
• Who it involves – female Gen-Y consumers
• In what context – the United Kingdom

So, make sure that your research proposal provides a detailed explanation of your research topic . If possible, also briefly outline your research aims and objectives , and perhaps even your research questions (although in some cases you’ll only develop these at a later stage). Needless to say, don’t start writing your proposal until you have a clear topic in mind , or you’ll end up waffling and your research proposal will suffer as a result of this.

Need a helping hand?

As we touched on earlier, it’s not good enough to simply propose a research topic – you need to justify why your topic is original . In other words, what makes it  unique ? What gap in the current literature does it fill? If it’s simply a rehash of the existing research, it’s probably not going to get approval – it needs to be fresh.

But,  originality  alone is not enough. Once you’ve ticked that box, you also need to justify why your proposed topic is  important . In other words, what value will it add to the world if you achieve your research aims?

As an example, let’s look at the sample research topic we mentioned earlier (factors impacting brand advocacy). In this case, if the research could uncover relevant factors, these findings would be very useful to marketers in the cosmetics industry, and would, therefore, have commercial value . That is a clear justification for the research.

So, when you’re crafting your research proposal, remember that it’s not enough for a topic to simply be unique. It needs to be useful and value-creating – and you need to convey that value in your proposal. If you’re struggling to find a research topic that makes the cut, watch  our video covering how to find a research topic .

It’s all good and well to have a great topic that’s original and valuable, but you’re not going to convince anyone to approve it without discussing the practicalities – in other words:

• How will you actually undertake your research (i.e., your methodology)?
• Is your research methodology appropriate given your research aims?
• Is your approach manageable given your constraints (time, money, etc.)?

While it’s generally not expected that you’ll have a fully fleshed-out methodology at the proposal stage, you’ll likely still need to provide a high-level overview of your research methodology . Here are some important questions you’ll need to address in your research proposal:

• Will you take a qualitative , quantitative or mixed -method approach?
• What sampling strategy will you adopt?
• How will you collect your data (e.g., interviews , surveys, etc)?
• How will you analyse your data (e.g., descriptive and inferential statistics , content analysis, discourse analysis, etc, .)?
• What potential limitations will your methodology carry?

So, be sure to give some thought to the practicalities of your research and have at least a basic methodological plan before you start writing up your proposal. If this all sounds rather intimidating, the video below provides a good introduction to research methodology and the key choices you’ll need to make.

How To Structure A Research Proposal

Now that we’ve covered the key points that need to be addressed in a proposal, you may be wondering, “ But how is a research proposal structured? “.

While the exact structure and format required for a research proposal differs from university to university, there are four “essential ingredients” that commonly make up the structure of a research proposal:

• A rich introduction and background to the proposed research
• An initial literature review covering the existing research
• An overview of the proposed research methodology
• A discussion regarding the practicalities (project plans, timelines, etc.)

In the video below, we unpack each of these four sections, step by step.

Research Proposal Examples/Samples

In the video below, we provide a detailed walkthrough of two successful research proposals (Master’s and PhD-level), as well as our popular free proposal template.

Proposal Writing FAQs

How long should a research proposal be.

This varies tremendously, depending on the university, the field of study (e.g., social sciences vs natural sciences), and the level of the degree (e.g. undergraduate, Masters or PhD) – so it’s always best to check with your university what their specific requirements are before you start planning your proposal.

As a rough guide, a formal research proposal at Masters-level often ranges between 2000-3000 words, while a PhD-level proposal can be far more detailed, ranging from 5000-8000 words. In some cases, a rough outline of the topic is all that’s needed, while in other cases, universities expect a very detailed proposal that essentially forms the first three chapters of the dissertation or thesis.

The takeaway – be sure to check with your institution before you start writing.

How do I choose a topic for my research proposal?

Finding a good research topic is a process that involves multiple steps. We cover the topic ideation process in this video post.

How do I write a literature review for my proposal?

While you typically won’t need a comprehensive literature review at the proposal stage, you still need to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the key literature and are able to synthesise it. We explain the literature review process here.

How do I create a timeline and budget for my proposal?

We explain how to craft a project plan/timeline and budget in Research Proposal Bootcamp .

Which referencing format should I use in my research proposal?

The expectations and requirements regarding formatting and referencing vary from institution to institution. Therefore, you’ll need to check this information with your university.

What common proposal writing mistakes do I need to look out for?

We’ve create a video post about some of the most common mistakes students make when writing a proposal – you can access that here . If you’re short on time, here’s a quick summary:

• The research topic is too broad (or just poorly articulated).
• The research aims, objectives and questions don’t align.
• The research topic is not well justified.
• The study has a weak theoretical foundation.
• The research design is not well articulated well enough.
• Poor writing and sloppy presentation.
• Poor project planning and risk management.
• Not following the university’s specific criteria.

Key Takeaways & Additional Resources

As you write up your research proposal, remember the all-important core purpose:  to convince . Your research proposal needs to sell your study in terms of suitability and viability. So, focus on crafting a convincing narrative to ensure a strong proposal.

At the same time, pay close attention to your university’s requirements. While we’ve covered the essentials here, every institution has its own set of expectations and it’s essential that you follow these to maximise your chances of approval.

By the way, we’ve got plenty more resources to help you fast-track your research proposal. Here are some of our most popular resources to get you started:

• Proposal Writing 101 : A Introductory Webinar
• Research Proposal Bootcamp : The Ultimate Online Course
• Template : A basic template to help you craft your proposal

If you’re looking for 1-on-1 support with your research proposal, be sure to check out our private coaching service , where we hold your hand through the proposal development process (and the entire research journey), step by step.

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 .

52 Comments

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You’re most welcome. We don’t have any research proposals that we can share (the students own the intellectual property), but you might find our research proposal template useful: https://gradcoach.com/research-proposal-template/

Cheruiyot Moses Kipyegon

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What is a research proposal?

A research proposal is a type of text which maps out a proposed central research problem or question and a suggested approach to its investigation.

In many universities, including RMIT, the research proposal is a formal requirement. It is central to achieving your first milestone: your Confirmation of Candidature. The research proposal is useful for both you and the University: it gives you the opportunity to get valuable feedback about your intended research aims, objectives and design. It also confirms that your proposed research is worth doing, which puts you on track for a successful candidature supported by your School and the University. 

Although there may be specific School or disciplinary requirements that you need to be aware of, all research proposals address the following central themes:

• what   you propose to research
• why   the topic needs to be researched
• how  you plan to research it.

Purpose and audience

Before venturing into writing a research purposal, it is important to think about the  purpose  and  audience of this type of text.  Spend a moment or two to reflect on what these might be.

What do you think is the purpose of your research proposal and who is your audience?

The purpose of your research proposal is:

1. To allow experienced researchers (your supervisors and their peers) to assess whether

• the research question or problem is viable (that is, answers or solutions are possible)
• the research is worth doing in terms of its contribution to the field of study and benefits to stakeholders
• the scope is appropriate to the degree (Masters or PhD)
• you’ve understood the relevant key literature and identified the gap for your research
• you’ve chosen an appropriate methodological approach.

2. To help you clarify and focus on what you want to do, why you want to do it, and how you’ll do it. The research proposal helps you position yourself as a researcher in your field. It will also allow you to:

• systematically think through your proposed research, argue for its significance and identify the scope
• show a critical understanding of the scholarly field around your proposed research
• show the gap in the literature that your research will address
• justify your proposed research design
• identify all tasks that need to be done through a realistic timetable
• anticipate potential problems
• hone organisational skills that you will need for your research
• become familiar with relevant search engines and databases
• develop skills in research writing.

The main audience for your research proposal is your reviewers. Universities usually assign a panel of reviewers to which you need to submit your research proposal. Often this is within the first year of study for PhD candidates, and within the first six months for Masters by Research candidates.

Your reviewers may have a strong disciplinary understanding of the area of your proposed research, but depending on your specialisation, they may not. It is therefore important to create a clear context, rationale and framework for your proposed research. Limit jargon and specialist terminology so that non-specialists can comprehend it. You need to convince the reviewers that your proposed research is worth doing and that you will be able to effectively ‘interrogate’ your research questions or address the research problems through your chosen research design.

Your review panel will expect you to demonstrate:

• a clearly defined and feasible research project
• a clearly explained rationale for your research
• evidence that your research will make an original contribution through a critical review of the literature
• written skills appropriate to graduate research study.

Research and Writing Skills for Academic and Graduate Researchers Copyright © 2022 by RMIT University is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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• How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

Published on October 12, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on November 21, 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 organized 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, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research proposals.

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

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Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

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See an example

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

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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 synthesize 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. Emphasize 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?

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

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.

The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.

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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

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The critical steps for successful research: The research proposal and scientific writing: (A report on the pre-conference workshop held in conjunction with the 64 th annual conference of the Indian Pharmaceutical Congress-2012)

Pitchai balakumar.

Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Pharmacy, AIMST University, Semeling, 08100 Bedong. Kedah Darul Aman, Malaysia

Mohammed Naseeruddin Inamdar

1 Department of Pharmacology, Al-Ameen College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

Gowraganahalli Jagadeesh

2 Division of Cardiovascular and Renal Products, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, USA

An interactive workshop on ‘The Critical Steps for Successful Research: The Research Proposal and Scientific Writing’ was conducted in conjunction with the 64 th Annual Conference of the Indian Pharmaceutical Congress-2012 at Chennai, India. In essence, research is performed to enlighten our understanding of a contemporary issue relevant to the needs of society. To accomplish this, a researcher begins search for a novel topic based on purpose, creativity, critical thinking, and logic. This leads to the fundamental pieces of the research endeavor: Question, objective, hypothesis, experimental tools to test the hypothesis, methodology, and data analysis. When correctly performed, research should produce new knowledge. The four cornerstones of good research are the well-formulated protocol or proposal that is well executed, analyzed, discussed and concluded. This recent workshop educated researchers in the critical steps involved in the development of a scientific idea to its successful execution and eventual publication.

INTRODUCTION

Creativity and critical thinking are of particular importance in scientific research. Basically, research is original investigation undertaken to gain knowledge and understand concepts in major subject areas of specialization, and includes the generation of ideas and information leading to new or substantially improved scientific insights with relevance to the needs of society. Hence, the primary objective of research is to produce new knowledge. Research is both theoretical and empirical. It is theoretical because the starting point of scientific research is the conceptualization of a research topic and development of a research question and hypothesis. Research is empirical (practical) because all of the planned studies involve a series of observations, measurements, and analyses of data that are all based on proper experimental design.[ 1 – 9 ]

The subject of this report is to inform readers of the proceedings from a recent workshop organized by the 64 th Annual conference of the ‘ Indian Pharmaceutical Congress ’ at SRM University, Chennai, India, from 05 to 06 December 2012. The objectives of the workshop titled ‘The Critical Steps for Successful Research: The Research Proposal and Scientific Writing,’ were to assist participants in developing a strong fundamental understanding of how best to develop a research or study protocol, and communicate those research findings in a conference setting or scientific journal. Completing any research project requires meticulous planning, experimental design and execution, and compilation and publication of findings in the form of a research paper. All of these are often unfamiliar to naïve researchers; thus, the purpose of this workshop was to teach participants to master the critical steps involved in the development of an idea to its execution and eventual publication of the results (See the last section for a list of learning objectives).

THE STRUCTURE OF THE WORKSHOP

The two-day workshop was formatted to include key lectures and interactive breakout sessions that focused on protocol development in six subject areas of the pharmaceutical sciences. This was followed by sessions on scientific writing. DAY 1 taught the basic concepts of scientific research, including: (1) how to formulate a topic for research and to describe the what, why , and how of the protocol, (2) biomedical literature search and review, (3) study designs, statistical concepts, and result analyses, and (4) publication ethics. DAY 2 educated the attendees on the basic elements and logistics of writing a scientific paper and thesis, and preparation of poster as well as oral presentations.

The final phase of the workshop was the ‘Panel Discussion,’ including ‘Feedback/Comments’ by participants. There were thirteen distinguished speakers from India and abroad. Approximately 120 post-graduate and pre-doctoral students, young faculty members, and scientists representing industries attended the workshop from different parts of the country. All participants received a printed copy of the workshop manual and supporting materials on statistical analyses of data.

THE BASIC CONCEPTS OF RESEARCH: THE KEY TO GETTING STARTED IN RESEARCH

A research project generally comprises four key components: (1) writing a protocol, (2) performing experiments, (3) tabulating and analyzing data, and (4) writing a thesis or manuscript for publication.

Fundamentals in the research process

A protocol, whether experimental or clinical, serves as a navigator that evolves from a basic outline of the study plan to become a qualified research or grant proposal. It provides the structural support for the research. Dr. G. Jagadeesh (US FDA), the first speaker of the session, spoke on ‘ Fundamentals in research process and cornerstones of a research project .’ He discussed at length the developmental and structural processes in preparing a research protocol. A systematic and step-by-step approach is necessary in planning a study. Without a well-designed protocol, there would be a little chance for successful completion of a research project or an experiment.

Research topic

The first and the foremost difficult task in research is to identify a topic for investigation. The research topic is the keystone of the entire scientific enterprise. It begins the project, drives the entire study, and is crucial for moving the project forward. It dictates the remaining elements of the study [ Table 1 ] and thus, it should not be too narrow or too broad or unfocused. Because of these potential pitfalls, it is essential that a good or novel scientific idea be based on a sound concept. Creativity, critical thinking, and logic are required to generate new concepts and ideas in solving a research problem. Creativity involves critical thinking and is associated with generating many ideas. Critical thinking is analytical, judgmental, and involves evaluating choices before making a decision.[ 4 ] Thus, critical thinking is convergent type thinking that narrows and refines those divergent ideas and finally settles to one idea for an in-depth study. The idea on which a research project is built should be novel, appropriate to achieve within the existing conditions, and useful to the society at large. Therefore, creativity and critical thinking assist biomedical scientists in research that results in funding support, novel discovery, and publication.[ 1 , 4 ]

Elements of a study protocol

Research question

The next most crucial aspect of a study protocol is identifying a research question. It should be a thought-provoking question. The question sets the framework. It emerges from the title, findings/results, and problems observed in previous studies. Thus, mastering the literature, attendance at conferences, and discussion in journal clubs/seminars are sources for developing research questions. Consider the following example in developing related research questions from the research topic.

Hepatoprotective activity of Terminalia arjuna and Apium graveolens on paracetamol-induced liver damage in albino rats.

How is paracetamol metabolized in the body? Does it involve P450 enzymes? How does paracetamol cause liver injury? What are the mechanisms by which drugs can alleviate liver damage? What biochemical parameters are indicative of liver injury? What major endogenous inflammatory molecules are involved in paracetamol-induced liver damage?

A research question is broken down into more precise objectives. The objectives lead to more precise methods and definition of key terms. The objectives should be SMART-Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-framed,[ 10 ] and should cover the entire breadth of the project. The objectives are sometimes organized into hierarchies: Primary, secondary, and exploratory; or simply general and specific. Study the following example:

To evaluate the safety and tolerability of single oral doses of compound X in normal volunteers.

To assess the pharmacokinetic profile of compound X following single oral doses.

To evaluate the incidence of peripheral edema reported as an adverse event.

The objectives and research questions are then formulated into a workable or testable hypothesis. The latter forces us to think carefully about what comparisons will be needed to answer the research question, and establishes the format for applying statistical tests to interpret the results. The hypothesis should link a process to an existing or postulated biologic pathway. A hypothesis is written in a form that can yield measurable results. Studies that utilize statistics to compare groups of data should have a hypothesis. Consider the following example:

• The hepatoprotective activity of Terminalia arjuna is superior to that of Apium graveolens against paracetamol-induced liver damage in albino rats.

All biological research, including discovery science, is hypothesis-driven. However, not all studies need be conducted with a hypothesis. For example, descriptive studies (e.g., describing characteristics of a plant, or a chemical compound) do not need a hypothesis.[ 1 ]

Relevance of the study

Another important section to be included in the protocol is ‘significance of the study.’ Its purpose is to justify the need for the research that is being proposed (e.g., development of a vaccine for a disease). In summary, the proposed study should demonstrate that it represents an advancement in understanding and that the eventual results will be meaningful, contribute to the field, and possibly even impact society.

Biomedical literature

A literature search may be defined as the process of examining published sources of information on a research or review topic, thesis, grant application, chemical, drug, disease, or clinical trial, etc. The quantity of information available in print or electronically (e.g., the internet) is immense and growing with time. A researcher should be familiar with the right kinds of databases and search engines to extract the needed information.[ 3 , 6 ]

Dr. P. Balakumar (Institute of Pharmacy, Rajendra Institute of Technology and Sciences, Sirsa, Haryana; currently, Faculty of Pharmacy, AIMST University, Malaysia) spoke on ‘ Biomedical literature: Searching, reviewing and referencing .’ He schematically explained the basis of scientific literature, designing a literature review, and searching literature. After an introduction to the genesis and diverse sources of scientific literature searches, the use of PubMed, one of the premier databases used for biomedical literature searches world-wide, was illustrated with examples and screenshots. Several companion databases and search engines are also used for finding information related to health sciences, and they include Embase, Web of Science, SciFinder, The Cochrane Library, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, Scopus, and Google Scholar.[ 3 ] Literature searches using alternative interfaces for PubMed such as GoPubMed, Quertle, PubFocus, Pubget, and BibliMed were discussed. The participants were additionally informed of databases on chemistry, drugs and drug targets, clinical trials, toxicology, and laboratory animals (reviewed in ref[ 3 ]).

Referencing and bibliography are essential in scientific writing and publication.[ 7 ] Referencing systems are broadly classified into two major types, such as Parenthetical and Notation systems. Parenthetical referencing is also known as Harvard style of referencing, while Vancouver referencing style and ‘Footnote’ or ‘Endnote’ are placed under Notation referencing systems. The participants were educated on each referencing system with examples.

Bibliography management

Dr. Raj Rajasekaran (University of California at San Diego, CA, USA) enlightened the audience on ‘ bibliography management ’ using reference management software programs such as Reference Manager ® , Endnote ® , and Zotero ® for creating and formatting bibliographies while writing a manuscript for publication. The discussion focused on the use of bibliography management software in avoiding common mistakes such as incomplete references. Important steps in bibliography management, such as creating reference libraries/databases, searching for references using PubMed/Google scholar, selecting and transferring selected references into a library, inserting citations into a research article and formatting bibliographies, were presented. A demonstration of Zotero®, a freely available reference management program, included the salient features of the software, adding references from PubMed using PubMed ID, inserting citations and formatting using different styles.

Writing experimental protocols

The workshop systematically instructed the participants in writing ‘ experimental protocols ’ in six disciplines of Pharmaceutical Sciences.: (1) Pharmaceutical Chemistry (presented by Dr. P. V. Bharatam, NIPER, Mohali, Punjab); (2) Pharmacology (presented by Dr. G. Jagadeesh and Dr. P. Balakumar); (3) Pharmaceutics (presented by Dr. Jayant Khandare, Piramal Life Sciences, Mumbai); (4) Pharmacy Practice (presented by Dr. Shobha Hiremath, Al-Ameen College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru); (5) Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry (presented by Dr. Salma Khanam, Al-Ameen College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru); and (6) Pharmaceutical Analysis (presented by Dr. Saranjit Singh, NIPER, Mohali, Punjab). The purpose of the research plan is to describe the what (Specific Aims/Objectives), why (Background and Significance), and how (Design and Methods) of the proposal.

The research plan should answer the following questions: (a) what do you intend to do; (b) what has already been done in general, and what have other researchers done in the field; (c) why is this worth doing; (d) how is it innovative; (e) what will this new work add to existing knowledge; and (f) how will the research be accomplished?

In general, the format used by the faculty in all subjects is shown in Table 2 .

Elements of a research protocol

Biostatistics

Biostatistics is a key component of biomedical research. Highly reputed journals like The Lancet, BMJ, Journal of the American Medical Association, and many other biomedical journals include biostatisticians on their editorial board or reviewers list. This indicates that a great importance is given for learning and correctly employing appropriate statistical methods in biomedical research. The post-lunch session on day 1 of the workshop was largely committed to discussion on ‘ Basic biostatistics .’ Dr. R. Raveendran (JIPMER, Puducherry) and Dr. Avijit Hazra (PGIMER, Kolkata) reviewed, in parallel sessions, descriptive statistics, probability concepts, sample size calculation, choosing a statistical test, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing and ‘ P ’ values, parametric and non-parametric statistical tests, including analysis of variance (ANOVA), t tests, Chi-square test, type I and type II errors, correlation and regression, and summary statistics. This was followed by a practice and demonstration session. Statistics CD, compiled by Dr. Raveendran, was distributed to the participants before the session began and was demonstrated live. Both speakers worked on a variety of problems that involved both clinical and experimental data. They discussed through examples the experimental designs encountered in a variety of studies and statistical analyses performed for different types of data. For the benefit of readers, we have summarized statistical tests applied frequently for different experimental designs and post-hoc tests [ Figure 1 ].

Conceptual framework for statistical analyses of data. Of the two kinds of variables, qualitative (categorical) and quantitative (numerical), qualitative variables (nominal or ordinal) are not normally distributed. Numerical data that come from normal distributions are analyzed using parametric tests, if not; the data are analyzed using non-parametric tests. The most popularly used Student's t -test compares the means of two populations, data for this test could be paired or unpaired. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) is used to compare the means of three or more independent populations that are normally distributed. Applying t test repeatedly in pair (multiple comparison), to compare the means of more than two populations, will increase the probability of type I error (false positive). In this case, for proper interpretation, we need to adjust the P values. Repeated measures ANOVA is used to compare the population means if more than two observations coming from same subject over time. The null hypothesis is rejected with a ‘ P ’ value of less than 0.05, and the difference in population means is considered to be statistically significant. Subsequently, appropriate post-hoc tests are used for pairwise comparisons of population means. Two-way or three-way ANOVA are considered if two (diet, dose) or three (diet, dose, strain) independent factors, respectively, are analyzed in an experiment (not described in the Figure). Categorical nominal unmatched variables (counts or frequencies) are analyzed by Chi-square test (not shown in the Figure)

Research and publication ethics

The legitimate pursuit of scientific creativity is unfortunately being marred by a simultaneous increase in scientific misconduct. A disproportionate share of allegations involves scientists of many countries, and even from respected laboratories. Misconduct destroys faith in science and scientists and creates a hierarchy of fraudsters. Investigating misconduct also steals valuable time and resources. In spite of these facts, most researchers are not aware of publication ethics.

Day 1 of the workshop ended with a presentation on ‘ research and publication ethics ’ by Dr. M. K. Unnikrishnan (College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal University, Manipal). He spoke on the essentials of publication ethics that included plagiarism (attempting to take credit of the work of others), self-plagiarism (multiple publications by an author on the same content of work with slightly different wordings), falsification (manipulation of research data and processes and omitting critical data or results), gift authorship (guest authorship), ghostwriting (someone other than the named author (s) makes a major contribution), salami publishing (publishing many papers, with minor differences, from the same study), and sabotage (distracting the research works of others to halt their research completion). Additionally, Dr. Unnikrishnan pointed out the ‘ Ingelfinger rule ’ of stipulating that a scientist must not submit the same original research in two different journals. He also advised the audience that authorship is not just credit for the work but also responsibility for scientific contents of a paper. Although some Indian Universities are instituting preventive measures (e.g., use of plagiarism detecting software, Shodhganga digital archiving of doctoral theses), Dr. Unnikrishnan argued for a great need to sensitize young researchers on the nature and implications of scientific misconduct. Finally, he discussed methods on how editors and peer reviewers should ethically conduct themselves while managing a manuscript for publication.

SCIENTIFIC COMMUNICATION: THE KEY TO SUCCESSFUL SELLING OF FINDINGS

Research outcomes are measured through quality publications. Scientists must not only ‘do’ science but must ‘write’ science. The story of the project must be told in a clear, simple language weaving in previous work done in the field, answering the research question, and addressing the hypothesis set forth at the beginning of the study. Scientific publication is an organic process of planning, researching, drafting, revising, and updating the current knowledge for future perspectives. Writing a research paper is no easier than the research itself. The lectures of Day 2 of the workshop dealt with the basic elements and logistics of writing a scientific paper.

An overview of paper structure and thesis writing

Dr. Amitabh Prakash (Adis, Auckland, New Zealand) spoke on ‘ Learning how to write a good scientific paper .’ His presentation described the essential components of an original research paper and thesis (e.g., introduction, methods, results, and discussion [IMRaD]) and provided guidance on the correct order, in which data should appear within these sections. The characteristics of a good abstract and title and the creation of appropriate key words were discussed. Dr. Prakash suggested that the ‘title of a paper’ might perhaps have a chance to make a good impression, and the title might be either indicative (title that gives the purpose of the study) or declarative (title that gives the study conclusion). He also suggested that an abstract is a succinct summary of a research paper, and it should be specific, clear, and concise, and should have IMRaD structure in brief, followed by key words. Selection of appropriate papers to be cited in the reference list was also discussed. Various unethical authorships were enumerated, and ‘The International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) criteria for authorship’ was explained ( http://www.icmje.org/ethical_1author.html ; also see Table 1 in reference #9). The session highlighted the need for transparency in medical publication and provided a clear description of items that needed to be included in the ‘Disclosures’ section (e.g., sources of funding for the study and potential conflicts of interest of all authors, etc.) and ‘Acknowledgements’ section (e.g., writing assistance and input from all individuals who did not meet the authorship criteria). The final part of the presentation was devoted to thesis writing, and Dr. Prakash provided the audience with a list of common mistakes that are frequently encountered when writing a manuscript.

The backbone of a study is description of results through Text, Tables, and Figures. Dr. S. B. Deshpande (Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India) spoke on ‘ Effective Presentation of Results .’ The Results section deals with the observations made by the authors and thus, is not hypothetical. This section is subdivided into three segments, that is, descriptive form of the Text, providing numerical data in Tables, and visualizing the observations in Graphs or Figures. All these are arranged in a sequential order to address the question hypothesized in the Introduction. The description in Text provides clear content of the findings highlighting the observations. It should not be the repetition of facts in tables or graphs. Tables are used to summarize or emphasize descriptive content in the text or to present the numerical data that are unrelated. Illustrations should be used when the evidence bearing on the conclusions of a paper cannot be adequately presented in a written description or in a Table. Tables or Figures should relate to each other logically in sequence and should be clear by themselves. Furthermore, the discussion is based entirely on these observations. Additionally, how the results are applied to further research in the field to advance our understanding of research questions was discussed.

Dr. Peush Sahni (All-India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi) spoke on effectively ‘ structuring the Discussion ’ for a research paper. The Discussion section deals with a systematic interpretation of study results within the available knowledge. He said the section should begin with the most important point relating to the subject studied, focusing on key issues, providing link sentences between paragraphs, and ensuring the flow of text. Points were made to avoid history, not repeat all the results, and provide limitations of the study. The strengths and novel findings of the study should be provided in the discussion, and it should open avenues for future research and new questions. The Discussion section should end with a conclusion stating the summary of key findings. Dr. Sahni gave an example from a published paper for writing a Discussion. In another presentation titled ‘ Writing an effective title and the abstract ,’ Dr. Sahni described the important components of a good title, such as, it should be simple, concise, informative, interesting and eye-catching, accurate and specific about the paper's content, and should state the subject in full indicating study design and animal species. Dr. Sahni explained structured (IMRaD) and unstructured abstracts and discussed a few selected examples with the audience.

Language and style in publication

The next lecture of Dr. Amitabh Prakash on ‘ Language and style in scientific writing: Importance of terseness, shortness and clarity in writing ’ focused on the actual sentence construction, language, grammar and punctuation in scientific manuscripts. His presentation emphasized the importance of brevity and clarity in the writing of manuscripts describing biomedical research. Starting with a guide to the appropriate construction of sentences and paragraphs, attendees were given a brief overview of the correct use of punctuation with interactive examples. Dr. Prakash discussed common errors in grammar and proactively sought audience participation in correcting some examples. Additional discussion was centered on discouraging the use of redundant and expendable words, jargon, and the use of adjectives with incomparable words. The session ended with a discussion of words and phrases that are commonly misused (e.g., data vs . datum, affect vs . effect, among vs . between, dose vs . dosage, and efficacy/efficacious vs . effective/effectiveness) in biomedical research manuscripts.

Working with journals

The appropriateness in selecting the journal for submission and acceptance of the manuscript should be determined by the experience of an author. The corresponding author must have a rationale in choosing the appropriate journal, and this depends upon the scope of the study and the quality of work performed. Dr. Amitabh Prakash spoke on ‘ Working with journals: Selecting a journal, cover letter, peer review process and impact factor ’ by instructing the audience in assessing the true value of a journal, understanding principles involved in the peer review processes, providing tips on making an initial approach to the editorial office, and drafting an appropriate cover letter to accompany the submission. His presentation defined the metrics that are most commonly used to measure journal quality (e.g., impact factor™, Eigenfactor™ score, Article Influence™ score, SCOPUS 2-year citation data, SCImago Journal Rank, h-Index, etc.) and guided attendees on the relative advantages and disadvantages of using each metric. Factors to consider when assessing journal quality were discussed, and the audience was educated on the ‘green’ and ‘gold’ open access publication models. Various peer review models (e.g., double-blind, single-blind, non-blind) were described together with the role of the journal editor in assessing manuscripts and selecting suitable reviewers. A typical checklist sent to referees was shared with the attendees, and clear guidance was provided on the best way to address referee feedback. The session concluded with a discussion of the potential drawbacks of the current peer review system.

Poster and oral presentations at conferences

Posters have become an increasingly popular mode of presentation at conferences, as it can accommodate more papers per meeting, has no time constraint, provides a better presenter-audience interaction, and allows one to select and attend papers of interest. In Figure 2 , we provide instructions, design, and layout in preparing a scientific poster. In the final presentation, Dr. Sahni provided the audience with step-by-step instructions on how to write and format posters for layout, content, font size, color, and graphics. Attendees were given specific guidance on the format of text on slides, the use of color, font type and size, and the use of illustrations and multimedia effects. Moreover, the importance of practical tips while delivering oral or poster presentation was provided to the audience, such as speak slowly and clearly, be informative, maintain eye contact, and listen to the questions from judges/audience carefully before coming up with an answer.

Guidelines and design to scientific poster presentation. The objective of scientific posters is to present laboratory work in scientific meetings. A poster is an excellent means of communicating scientific work, because it is a graphic representation of data. Posters should have focus points, and the intended message should be clearly conveyed through simple sections: Text, Tables, and Graphs. Posters should be clear, succinct, striking, and eye-catching. Colors should be used only where necessary. Use one font (Arial or Times New Roman) throughout. Fancy fonts should be avoided. All headings should have font size of 44, and be in bold capital letters. Size of Title may be a bit larger; subheading: Font size of 36, bold and caps. References and Acknowledgments, if any, should have font size of 24. Text should have font size between 24 and 30, in order to be legible from a distance of 3 to 6 feet. Do not use lengthy notes

PANEL DISCUSSION: FEEDBACK AND COMMENTS BY PARTICIPANTS

After all the presentations were made, Dr. Jagadeesh began a panel discussion that included all speakers. The discussion was aimed at what we do currently and could do in the future with respect to ‘developing a research question and then writing an effective thesis proposal/protocol followed by publication.’ Dr. Jagadeesh asked the following questions to the panelists, while receiving questions/suggestions from the participants and panelists.

• Does a Post-Graduate or Ph.D. student receive adequate training, either through an institutional course, a workshop of the present nature, or from the guide?
• Are these Post-Graduates self-taught (like most of us who learnt the hard way)?
• How are these guides trained? How do we train them to become more efficient mentors?
• Does a Post-Graduate or Ph.D. student struggle to find a method (s) to carry out studies? To what extent do seniors/guides help a post graduate overcome technical difficulties? How difficult is it for a student to find chemicals, reagents, instruments, and technical help in conducting studies?
• Analyses of data and interpretation: Most students struggle without adequate guidance.
• Thesis and publications frequently feature inadequate/incorrect statistical analyses and representation of data in tables/graphs. The student, their guide, and the reviewers all share equal responsibility.
• Who initiates and drafts the research paper? The Post-Graduate or their guide?
• What kind of assistance does a Post-Graduate get from the guide in finalizing a paper for publication?
• Does the guide insist that each Post-Graduate thesis yield at least one paper, and each Ph.D. thesis more than two papers, plus a review article?

The panelists and audience expressed a variety of views, but were unable to arrive at a decisive conclusion.

WHAT HAVE THE PARTICIPANTS LEARNED?

At the end of this fast-moving two-day workshop, the participants had opportunities in learning the following topics:

• Sequential steps in developing a study protocol, from choosing a research topic to developing research questions and a hypothesis.
• Study protocols on different topics in their subject of specialization
• Searching and reviewing the literature
• Appropriate statistical analyses in biomedical research
• Scientific ethics in publication
• Writing and understanding the components of a research paper (IMRaD)
• Recognizing the value of good title, running title, abstract, key words, etc
• Importance of Tables and Figures in the Results section, and their importance in describing findings
• Evidence-based Discussion in a research paper
• Language and style in writing a paper and expert tips on getting it published
• Presentation of research findings at a conference (oral and poster).

Overall, the workshop was deemed very helpful to participants. The participants rated the quality of workshop from “ satisfied ” to “ very satisfied .” A significant number of participants were of the opinion that the time allotted for each presentation was short and thus, be extended from the present two days to four days with adequate time to ask questions. In addition, a ‘hands-on’ session should be introduced for writing a proposal and manuscript. A large number of attendees expressed their desire to attend a similar workshop, if conducted, in the near future.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

We gratefully express our gratitude to the Organizing Committee, especially Professors K. Chinnasamy, B. G. Shivananda, N. Udupa, Jerad Suresh, Padma Parekh, A. P. Basavarajappa, Mr. S. V. Veerramani, Mr. J. Jayaseelan, and all volunteers of the SRM University. We thank Dr. Thomas Papoian (US FDA) for helpful comments on the manuscript.

The opinions expressed herein are those of Gowraganahalli Jagadeesh and do not necessarily reflect those of the US Food and Drug Administration

Source of Support: Nil

Conflict of Interest: None declared.

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Home » Proposal – Types, Examples, and Writing Guide

Proposal – Types, Examples, and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Definition:

Proposal is a formal document or presentation that outlines a plan, idea, or project and seeks to persuade others to support or adopt it. Proposals are commonly used in business, academia, and various other fields to propose new initiatives, solutions to problems, research studies, or business ventures.

Proposal Layout

While the specific layout of a proposal may vary depending on the requirements or guidelines provided by the recipient, there are some common sections that are typically included in a standard proposal. Here’s a typical layout for a proposal:

• The title of the proposal.
• Your name or the name of your organization.
• Date of submission.
• A list of sections or headings with corresponding page numbers for easy navigation.
• An overview of the proposal, highlighting its key points and benefits.
• Summarize the problem or opportunity.
• Outline the proposed solution or project.
• Mention the expected outcomes or deliverables.
• Keep it concise and compelling.
• Provide background information about the issue or context.
• Explain the purpose and objectives of the proposal.
• Clarify the problem statement or opportunity that the proposal aims to address.
• Describe in detail the methodology , approach , or plan to achieve the objectives.
• Outline the steps or tasks involved in implementing the proposal.
• Explain how the proposed solution or project will be executed.
• Include a timeline or schedule to demonstrate the project’s timeline.
• Define the specific activities, tasks, or services to be provided.
• Clarify the deliverables and expected outcomes.
• Mention any limitations or exclusions, if applicable.
• Provide a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with the proposal.
• Include itemized expenses such as personnel, materials, equipment, and any other relevant costs.
• If applicable, include a justification for each cost.
• Introduce the individuals or team members involved in the proposal.
• Highlight their qualifications, expertise, and experience relevant to the project.
• Include their roles and responsibilities.
• Specify how the success of the proposal will be measured.
• Define evaluation criteria and metrics to assess the outcomes.
• Explain how progress will be tracked and reported.
• Recap the main points of the proposal.
• Reiterate the benefits and advantages of the proposed solution.
• Emphasize the value and importance of supporting or adopting the proposal.
• Include any additional documents, references, charts, graphs, or data that support your proposal.
• These can include resumes, letters of support, financial projections, or relevant research materials.

Types of Types of Proposals

When it comes to proposals, there are various types depending on the context and purpose. Here are some common types of proposals:

Business Proposal

This type of proposal is used in the business world to present a plan, idea, or project to potential clients, investors, or partners. It typically includes an executive summary, problem statement, proposed solution, timeline, budget, and anticipated outcomes.

Project Proposal

A project proposal is a detailed document that outlines the objectives, scope, methodology, deliverables, and budget of a specific project. It is used to seek approval and funding from stakeholders or clients.

Research Proposal

Research proposals are commonly used in academic or scientific settings. They outline the research objectives, methodology, timeline, expected outcomes, and potential significance of a research study. These proposals are submitted to funding agencies, universities, or research institutions.

Grant Proposal

Non-profit organizations, researchers, or individuals seeking funding for a project or program often write grant proposals. These proposals provide a detailed plan of the project, including goals, methods, budget, and expected outcomes, to convince grant-making bodies to provide financial support.

Sales Proposal

Sales proposals are used by businesses to pitch their products or services to potential customers. They typically include information about the product/service, pricing, features, benefits, and a persuasive argument to encourage the recipient to make a purchase.

Sponsorship Proposal

When seeking sponsorship for an event, sports team, or individual, a sponsorship proposal is created. It outlines the benefits for the sponsor, the exposure they will receive, and the financial or in-kind support required.

Marketing Proposal

A marketing proposal is developed by marketing agencies or professionals to present their strategies and tactics to potential clients. It includes an analysis of the target market, proposed marketing activities, budget, and expected results.

Policy Proposal

In the realm of government or public policy, individuals or organizations may create policy proposals to suggest new laws, regulations, or changes to existing policies. These proposals typically provide an overview of the issue, the proposed solution, supporting evidence, and potential impacts.

Training Proposal

Organizations often create training proposals to propose a training program for their employees. These proposals outline the training objectives, topics to be covered, training methods, resources required, and anticipated outcomes.

Partnership Proposal

When two or more organizations or individuals wish to collaborate or form a partnership, a partnership proposal is used to present the benefits, shared goals, responsibilities, and terms of the proposed partnership.

Event Proposal

Event planners or individuals organizing an event, such as a conference, concert, or wedding, may create an event proposal. It includes details about the event concept, venue, logistics, budget, marketing plan, and anticipated attendee experience.

Technology Proposal

Technology proposals are used to present new technological solutions, system upgrades, or IT projects to stakeholders or decision-makers. These proposals outline the technology requirements, implementation plan, costs, and anticipated benefits.

Construction Proposal

Contractors or construction companies create construction proposals to bid on construction projects. These proposals include project specifications, cost estimates, timelines, materials, and construction methodologies.

Book Proposal

Authors or aspiring authors create book proposals to pitch their book ideas to literary agents or publishers. These proposals include a synopsis of the book, target audience, marketing plan, author’s credentials, and sample chapters.

Social Media Proposal

Social media professionals or agencies create social media proposals to present their strategies for managing social media accounts, creating content, and growing online presence. These proposals include an analysis of the current social media presence, proposed tactics, metrics for success, and pricing.

Training and Development Proposal

Similar to training proposals, these proposals focus on the overall development and growth of employees within an organization. They may include plans for leadership development, skill enhancement, or professional certification programs.

Consulting Proposal

Consultants create consulting proposals to present their services and expertise to potential clients. These proposals outline the problem statement, proposed approach, scope of work, timeline, deliverables, and fees.

Policy Advocacy Proposal

Organizations or individuals seeking to influence public policy or advocate for a particular cause create policy advocacy proposals. These proposals present research, evidence, and arguments to support a specific policy change or reform.

Website Design Proposal

Web designers or agencies create website design proposals to pitch their services to clients. These proposals outline the project scope, design concepts, development process, timeline, and pricing.

Environmental Proposal

Environmental proposals are created to address environmental issues or propose conservation initiatives. These proposals may include strategies for renewable energy, waste management, biodiversity preservation, or sustainable practices.

Health and Wellness Proposal

Proposals related to health and wellness can cover a range of topics, such as wellness programs, community health initiatives, healthcare system improvements, or health education campaigns.

Human Resources (HR) Proposal

HR professionals may create HR proposals to introduce new policies, employee benefits programs, performance evaluation systems, or employee training initiatives within an organization.

Nonprofit Program Proposal

Nonprofit organizations seeking funding or support for a specific program or project create nonprofit program proposals. These proposals outline the program’s objectives, activities, target beneficiaries, budget, and expected outcomes.

Government Contract Proposal

When bidding for government contracts, businesses or contractors create government contract proposals. These proposals include details about the project, compliance with regulations, cost estimates, and qualifications.

Product Development Proposal

Businesses or individuals seeking to develop and launch a new product present product development proposals. These proposals outline the product concept, market analysis, development process, production costs, and marketing strategies.

Feasibility Study Proposal

Feasibility study proposals are used to assess the viability and potential success of a project or business idea. These proposals include market research, financial analysis, risk assessment, and recommendations for implementation.

Educational Program Proposal

Educational institutions or organizations create educational program proposals to introduce new courses, curricula, or educational initiatives. These proposals outline the program objectives, learning outcomes, curriculum design, and resource requirements.

Social Service Proposal

Organizations involved in social services, such as healthcare, community development, or social welfare, create social service proposals to seek funding, support, or partnerships. These proposals outline the social issue, proposed interventions, anticipated impacts, and sustainability plans.

Proposal Writing Guide

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with proposal writing:

• Understand the Requirements: Before you begin writing your proposal, carefully review any guidelines, instructions, or requirements provided by the recipient or organization. This will ensure that you meet their expectations and include all necessary information.
• Research and Gather Information: Conduct thorough research on the topic or project you are proposing. Collect relevant data, statistics, case studies, and any supporting evidence that strengthens your proposal. This will demonstrate your knowledge and credibility.
• Define the Problem or Opportunity: Clearly identify and articulate the problem or opportunity that your proposal aims to address. Provide a concise and compelling explanation of why it is important and relevant.
• State Your Objectives: Outline the specific objectives or goals of your proposal. What do you hope to achieve? Make sure your objectives are clear, measurable, and aligned with the needs of the recipient.
• Present Your Solution: Propose your solution or approach to the problem. Describe how your solution is unique, innovative, and effective. Provide a step-by-step plan or methodology, highlighting key activities, deliverables, and timelines.
• Demonstrate Benefits and Impact: Clearly outline the benefits and impact of your proposal. Explain how it will add value, solve the problem, or create positive change. Use evidence and examples to support your claims.
• Develop a Budget: If applicable, include a detailed budget that outlines the costs associated with implementing your proposal. Be transparent and realistic about expenses, and clearly explain how the funding will be allocated.
• Address Potential Risks and Mitigation Strategies: Identify any potential risks, challenges, or obstacles that may arise during the implementation of your proposal. Offer strategies or contingency plans to mitigate these risks and ensure the success of your project.
• Provide Supporting Documentation: Include any supporting documents that add credibility to your proposal. This may include resumes or bios of key team members, letters of support or partnership, relevant certifications, or past success stories.
• Write Clearly and Concisely: Use clear and concise language to communicate your ideas effectively. Avoid jargon or technical terms that may confuse or alienate the reader. Structure your proposal with headings, subheadings, and bullet points to enhance readability.
• Proofread and Edit: Carefully review your proposal for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors. Ensure that it is well-organized, coherent, and flows logically. Consider asking someone else to review it for feedback and suggestions.
• Include a Professional Cover Letter: If appropriate, attach a cover letter introducing your proposal. This letter should summarize the key points, express your enthusiasm, and provide contact information for further discussion.
• Follow Submission Instructions: Follow the specific instructions for submitting your proposal. This may include submitting it electronically, mailing it, or delivering it in person. Pay attention to submission deadlines and any additional requirements.
• Follow Up: After submitting your proposal, consider following up with the recipient to ensure they received it and address any questions or concerns they may have. This shows your commitment and professionalism.

Purpose of Proposal

The purpose of a proposal is to present a plan, idea, project, or solution to a specific audience in a persuasive and compelling manner. Proposals are typically written documents that aim to:

• Convince and Persuade: The primary purpose of a proposal is to convince the recipient or decision-makers to accept and support the proposed plan or idea. It is important to present a strong case, providing evidence, logical reasoning, and clear benefits to demonstrate why the proposal should be approved.
• Seek Approval or Funding: Proposals often seek approval or funding for a project, program, research study, business venture, or initiative. The purpose is to secure the necessary resources, whether financial, human, or technical, to implement the proposed endeavor.
• Solve Problems or Address Opportunities: Proposals are often developed in response to a problem, challenge, or opportunity. The purpose is to provide a well-thought-out solution or approach that effectively addresses the issue or leverages the opportunity for positive outcomes.
• Present a Comprehensive Plan : Proposals outline a comprehensive plan, including objectives, strategies, methodologies, timelines, budgets, and anticipated outcomes. The purpose is to demonstrate the feasibility, practicality, and potential success of the proposed plan.
• Inform and Educate: Proposals provide detailed information and analysis to educate the audience about the subject matter. They offer a thorough understanding of the problem or opportunity, the proposed solution, and the potential impact.
• Establish Credibility: Proposals aim to establish the credibility and expertise of the individual or organization presenting the proposal. They demonstrate the knowledge, experience, qualifications, and track record that make the proposer capable of successfully executing the proposed plan.
• I nitiate Collaboration or Partnerships: Proposals may serve as a means to initiate collaboration, partnerships, or contractual agreements. They present an opportunity for individuals, organizations, or entities to work together towards a common goal or project.
• Provide a Basis for Decision-Making: Proposals offer the information and analysis necessary for decision-makers to evaluate the merits and feasibility of the proposed plan. They provide a framework for informed decision-making, allowing stakeholders to assess the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes.

When to write a Proposal

Proposals are typically written in various situations when you need to present a plan, idea, or project to a specific audience. Here are some common scenarios when you may need to write a proposal:

• Business Opportunities: When you identify a business opportunity, such as a potential client or partnership, you may write a proposal to pitch your products, services, or collaboration ideas.
• Funding or Grants: If you require financial support for a project, research study, non-profit program, or any initiative, you may need to write a proposal to seek funding from government agencies, foundations, or philanthropic organizations.
• Project Planning: When you plan to undertake a project, whether it’s a construction project, software development, event organization, or any other endeavor, writing a project proposal helps outline the objectives, deliverables, timelines, and resource requirements.
• Research Studies: In academic or scientific settings, researchers write research proposals to present their study objectives, research questions, methodology, anticipated outcomes, and potential significance to funding bodies, universities, or research institutions.
• Business Development: If you’re expanding your business, launching a new product or service, or entering a new market, writing a business proposal helps outline your plans, strategies, market analysis, and financial projections to potential investors or partners.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: When seeking partnerships, collaborations, or joint ventures with other organizations or individuals, writing a partnership proposal helps communicate the benefits, shared goals, responsibilities, and terms of the proposed partnership.
• Policy or Advocacy Initiatives: When advocating for a particular cause, addressing public policy issues, or proposing policy changes, writing a policy proposal helps outline the problem, proposed solutions, supporting evidence, and potential impacts.
• Contract Bidding: If you’re bidding for contracts, whether in government or private sectors, writing a proposal is necessary to present your capabilities, expertise, resources, and pricing to potential clients or procurement departments.
• Consulting or Service Contracts: If you offer consulting services, professional expertise, or specialized services, writing a proposal helps outline your approach, deliverables, fees, and timeline to potential clients.

Importance of Proposal

Proposals play a significant role in numerous areas and have several important benefits. Here are some key reasons why proposals are important:

• Communication and Clarity: Proposals serve as a formal means of communication, allowing you to clearly articulate your plan, idea, or project to others. By presenting your proposal in a structured format, you ensure that your message is conveyed effectively, minimizing misunderstandings and confusion.
• Decision-Making Tool: Proposals provide decision-makers with the necessary information and analysis to make informed choices. They offer a comprehensive overview of the proposal, including objectives, strategies, timelines, budgets, and anticipated outcomes. This enables stakeholders to evaluate the proposal’s feasibility, alignment with goals, and potential return on investment.
• Accountability and Documentation: Proposals serve as a written record of commitments, responsibilities, and expectations. Once a proposal is approved, it becomes a reference point for all parties involved, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and accountable for their roles and obligations.
• Planning and Organization: Writing a proposal requires thorough planning and organization. It compels you to define objectives, outline strategies, consider potential risks, and create a timeline. This process helps you think critically about the proposal, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas that require further refinement.
• Persuasion and Influence: Proposals are persuasive documents that aim to convince others to support or approve your plan. By presenting a well-constructed proposal, supported by evidence, logical reasoning, and benefits, you enhance your ability to influence decision-makers and stakeholders.
• Resource Allocation and Funding: Many proposals are written to secure resources, whether financial, human, or technical. A compelling proposal can increase the likelihood of obtaining funding, grants, or other resources needed to execute a project or initiative successfully.
• Partnership and Collaboration Opportunities: Proposals enable you to seek partnerships, collaborations, or joint ventures with other organizations or individuals. By presenting a clear proposal that outlines the benefits, shared goals, responsibilities, and terms, you increase the likelihood of forming mutually beneficial relationships.
• Professionalism and Credibility: A well-written proposal demonstrates professionalism, expertise, and credibility. It showcases your ability to analyze complex issues, develop effective strategies, and present ideas in a concise and persuasive manner. This can enhance your reputation and increase trust among stakeholders.
• Continual Improvement: The process of writing proposals encourages you to refine your ideas, explore alternatives, and seek feedback. It provides an opportunity for reflection and refinement, ultimately leading to continuous improvement in your plans and approaches.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Purpose and Benefits of a Research Proposal

Table of Contents

Research proposals are essential to the academic world, providing a roadmap for research and experimentation. They enable academics to hone their ideas and articulate them in a way that peers and potential collaborators can understand. In addition, they serve as a means of demonstrating one’s expertise in a subject area and can also have important benefits beyond academia. Proposals can help secure funding. This article will discuss the  purpose of a proposal  in academia.

Purpose of a Proposal

A research proposal is a document that outlines the proposed research project and its aims, objectives, methods, results, and conclusion . It serves as an essential tool to get approval from potential sponsors or funding agencies to proceed with the research. A well-drafted research proposal should demonstrate the author’s expertise in the field of study and convey their intentions clearly to readers. Here are the specific purposes a research proposal serves.

Provide Information About the Study

The primary purpose of a research proposal is to provide sufficient information about the intended research study. It helps readers to evaluate its value and make a decision on whether to fund it or not. The proposal must also convince reviewers that the investigator has the appropriate knowledge and skills to conduct the study successfully. Therefore, it is important to present the research plan in a concise, accurate, logical, and understandable manner. The proposal should include all necessary details such as background information, objectives, methodology, data collection plans, timeline, budget, and expected outcomes.

Research Guidance

A secondary purpose of a research proposal is to offer practical guidance for conducting the planned investigation. In other words, it provides step-by-step instructions for designing and carrying out the research work. This includes identifying suitable research participants, specifying which variables will be measured, and determining how data will be collected. It also includes analyzing data accurately and drawing valid conclusions from it. Furthermore, a research proposal helps to define the scope of a particular project. It identifies any methodological challenges associated with it, develops strategies to address them, and assesses any risks posed by external factors.

Shows Feasibility

A third purpose of a research proposal is to show the feasibility of your study. Through your research proposal’s methodology, you can convince evaluators that your research goal is attainable. Not every study is feasible or can be done, but research proposals serve as proof of its feasibility.

Shows Relevance

A research proposal is an important document that outlines the relevance of a proposed study. It helps to demonstrate how the project will contribute to existing knowledge and understanding in the field. It also explains its potential impact on society. The proposal should explain why the topic is worth researching and what new insights it could bring. This includes outlining gaps in current knowledge that the research aims to fill and demonstrating how it relates to other studies in the area. The proposal should also provide evidence of the practical applications of the research, such as how it might benefit individuals or organizations.

Final Thoughts

Finally, writing a research proposal requires intense preparation in terms of time and effort. The  purpose of a proposal cannot be narrowed down to a single purpose. It serves multiple purposes. Through the proposal, researchers can analyze problems more thoroughly. It helps clarify their thoughts and helps them get a deeper understanding of their topic area before commencing their projects.

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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Inhaltsverzeichnis

• 1 Definition
• 3 Bachelor/Master Thesis
• 4 Examples of A Research Proposal
• 5 In a Nutshell

The research proposal example is a complex task that requires an understanding of multiple skills. The paper aims to deliver a brief overview of the research you will conduct. The research proposal example explains the main reasons why your research will be useful to the reader and to society in general. The research proposal example contains the main idea , the reason why you are doing the research , and the methodology you will use. A great research proposal example is especially important if you hope to get funding for your research.

This article gives a clear and simple guide to writing a research proposal. The research proposal example is an important part of beginning your research in college or university. If your supervisor does not approve it, you may not begin your research. Here is a detailed guide on how the process of coming up with a research proposal works.

What should a research proposal example include?

The research proposal example should include 7 main sections. You can find a detailed description of each section at our blog article about research proposal samples .

• Research overview
• Research context
• Research questions
• Research methods
• The significance of the research

It’s a clear outline of the topic/issues you’re going to cover in your thesis later on. While you may include other sections, these seven sections must always appear in the most basic research proposal examples.

What is the format of a research proposal?

During the first reading, your supervisors will most likely take a quick look at it to determine if it is worth going over or not. As such, you need to take full advantage of the title page and table of contents to include as much information as possible while also being mindful of whitespace. A great first impression is vital.

How long should the research proposal be?

Your research proposal example will typically be just 2500 words plus or minus a few hundred words. Having trouble getting started? Check out some tips for overcoming writer’s block .

Tip: The exact requirements and word count might change depending on the specific research body to which you are sending the research proposal. So be sure to double check.

Can the staff comment on a draft proposal?

Yes! The school recognizes that your research topic is still in development and you might need help to polish it up. It’s important that you take on all feedback- especially when it comes to refining your research questions . You will be able to contact your research supervisor who has the expertise to discuss your research proposal example and give you tips on how to make improvements to it.

What is the purpose of a research proposal example?

Your research proposal is the basis of your bachelor’s thesis and any other academic qualifying paper that you’re required to write. The main reason you write a research proposal example is to convince the reader of why your project is valuable and of your competence in that area. Your reader needs to be convinced that this is not yet another useless piece of writing, but a profound piece of research, which will serve a real-world purpose.

What tenses is a research proposal example written in?

A research proposal example is a piece of writing indicating what you intend to do at some point in the future. As such, the research proposal example is written in the present or future tense. For some more in-depth information about writing and structuring your  research proposal sample , head over to our blog post.

Why is learning how to write a good research proposal an important skill?

Research proposal writing is an important skill to master. You will be writing research proposals throughout your professional career from your bachelor’s thesis to your PhD. With the right skills, you will be able to convince others about a new product you wish to launch or a service and why it is worth their time.

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How important is a proposal example for academic writing?

The main purpose of your research proposal example is to convince the reader why your project is important and your competence in the chosen area of research. Writing a research proposal can be easy if you have a good research proposal example. Many students face problems when trying to come up with it alone. This is why using a research proposal example is so important. Here are some of the benefits of using a research proposal example:

See how the overall structure looks like

A research proposal example will show you which parts you need to include in your research proposal. You will understand how each part should be organized and what information needs to be included.

Understand the most important parts

A research proposal example contains the most important parts that must be included. You will understand which parts to include and how to include them.

Avoid common mistakes

A research proposal example is a great way to identify common mistakes that people make when writing research proposals. Amongst the mistakes is a failure to focus on the main problem of the research, failing to provide the required arguments in support of the proposal, and not using a given format.

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Examples of A Research Proposal

• Research Proposal Example 1

• Research Proposal Example 2

Research topic A working title that describes the content and direction of the project Project Description Background What is known and what is unknown in your chosen area of research.

Aims What you intend to know, demonstrate, test, investigate, examine? List the aims logically.

Methodology How do you intend to achieve your aims? What do you require? Are there barriers? Are there human or animal ethics involved? Is travel required? Expected outcomes, Why is this research important? What do expect from the research? What are the outcomes you expect? You need to show the research is original and worth looking into.

Timetable Indicate the timeframe of each broad stage of the research, including the data collection, literature review, production, modeling, review and analysis, testing, reporting, thesis writing, and submission date.

In a Nutshell

• Choose a realistic area of research
• Take time to go through a research proposal example
• Always speak to academic staff to provide you with guidance
• Do not plagiarize any research proposal example you find
• Think about the budgetary requirements when creating a research proposal

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Overview of a Research Proposal

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How to Write a Research Proposal: A Complete Guide

A research proposal is a piece of writing that basically serves as your plan for a research project. It spells out what you’ll study, how you’ll go about it, and why it matters. Think of it as your pitch to show professors or funding bodies that your project is worth their attention and support.

This task is standard for grad students, especially those in research-intensive fields. It’s your chance to showcase your ability to think critically, design a solid study, and articulate why your research could make a difference.

In this article, we'll talk about how to craft a good research proposal, covering everything from the standard format of a research proposal to the specific details you'll need to include. 

Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of putting one together? That’s where DoMyEssay comes in handy.  Whether you need a little push or more extensive guidance, we’ll help you nail your proposal and move your project forward. 

Research Proposal Format

When you're putting together a research proposal, think of it as setting up a roadmap for your project. You want it to be clear and easy to follow so everyone knows what you’re planning to do, how you’re going to do it, and why it matters. 

Whether you’re following APA or Chicago style, the key is to keep your formatting clean so that it’s easy for committees or funding bodies to read through and understand.

Here’s a breakdown of each section, with a special focus on formatting a research proposal:

• Title Page : This is your first impression. Make sure it includes the title of your research proposal, your name, and your affiliations. Your title should grab attention and make it clear what your research is about.
• Abstract : This is your elevator pitch. In about 250 words, you need to sum up what you plan to research, how you plan to do it, and what impact you think it will have.
• Introduction : Here’s where you draw them in. Lay out your research question or problem, highlight its importance, and clearly outline what you aim to achieve with your study.
• Literature Review : Show that you’ve done your homework. In this section, demonstrate that you know the field and how your research fits into it. It’s your chance to connect your ideas to what’s already out there and show off a bit about what makes your approach unique or necessary.
• Methodology : Dive into the details of how you’ll get your research done. Explain your methods for gathering data and how you’ll analyze it. This is where you reassure them that your project is doable and you’ve thought through all the steps.
• Timeline : Keep it realistic. Provide an estimated schedule for your research, breaking down the process into manageable stages and assigning a timeline for each phase.
• Budget : If you need funding, lay out a budget that spells out what you need money for. Be clear and precise so there’s no guesswork involved about what you’re asking for.
• References/Bibliography : List out all the works you cited in your proposal. Stick to one citation style to keep things consistent.

Get Your Research Proposal Right 

Let our experts guide you through crafting a research proposal that stands out. From idea to submission, we've got you covered.

Research Proposal Structure

When you're writing a research proposal, you're laying out your questions and explaining the path you're planning to take to tackle them. Here’s how to structure your proposal so that it speaks to why your research matters and should get some attention.

Introduction

An introduction is where you grab attention and make everyone see why what you're doing matters. Here, you’ll pose the big question of your research proposal topic and show off the potential of your research right from the get-go:

• Grab attention : Start with something that makes the reader sit up — maybe a surprising fact, a challenging question, or a brief anecdote that highlights the urgency of your topic.
• Set the scene : What’s the broader context of your work? Give a snapshot of the landscape and zoom in on where your research fits. This helps readers see the big picture and the niche you’re filling.
• Lay out your plan : Briefly mention the main goals or questions of your research. If you have a hypothesis, state it clearly here.
• Make it matter : Show why your research needs to happen now. What gaps are you filling? What changes could your findings inspire? Make sure the reader understands the impact and significance of your work.

Literature Review

In your research proposal, the literature review does more than just recap what’s already out there. It's where you get to show off how your research connects with the big ideas and ongoing debates in your field. Here’s how to make this section work hard for you:

• Connect the dots : First up, highlight how your study fits into the current landscape by listing what others have done and positioning your research within it. You want to make it clear that you’re not just following the crowd but actually engaging with and contributing to real conversations. 
• Critique what’s out there : Explore what others have done well and where they’ve fallen short. Pointing out the gaps or where others might have missed the mark helps set up why your research is needed and how it offers something different.
• Build on what’s known : Explain how your research will use, challenge, or advance the existing knowledge. Are you closing a key gap? Applying old ideas in new ways? Make it clear how your work is going to add something new or push existing boundaries.

Aims and Objectives

Let's talk about the aims and objectives of your research. This is where you set out what you want to achieve and how you plan to get there:

• Main Goal : Start by stating your primary aim. What big question are you trying to answer, or what hypothesis are you testing? This is your research's main driving force.
• Detailed Objectives : Now, break down your main goal into smaller, actionable objectives. These should be clear and specific steps that will help you reach your overall aim. Think of these as the building blocks of your research, each one designed to contribute to the larger goal.

Research Design and Method

This part of your proposal outlines the practical steps you’ll take to answer your research questions:

• Type of Research : First off, what kind of research are you conducting? Will it be qualitative or quantitative research , or perhaps a mix of both? Clearly define whether you'll be gathering numerical data for statistical analysis or exploring patterns and theories in depth.
• Research Approach : Specify whether your approach is experimental, correlational, or descriptive. Each of these frameworks has its own way of uncovering insights, so choose the one that best fits the questions you’re trying to answer.
• Data Collection : Discuss the specifics of your data. If you’re in the social sciences, for instance, describe who or what you’ll be studying. How will you select your subjects or sources? What criteria will you use, and how will you gather your data? Be clear about the methods you’ll use, whether that’s surveys, interviews, observations, or experiments.
• Tools and Techniques : Detail the tools and techniques you'll use to collect your data. Explain why these tools are the best fit for your research goals.
• Timeline and Budget : Sketch out a timeline for your research activities. How long will each phase take? This helps everyone see that your project is organized and feasible.
• Potential Challenges : What might go wrong? Think about potential obstacles and how you plan to handle them. This shows you’re thinking ahead and preparing for all possibilities.

Ethical Considerations

When you're conducting research, especially involving people, you've got to think about ethics. This is all about ensuring everyone's rights are respected throughout your study. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Participant Rights : You need to protect your participants' rights to privacy, autonomy, and confidentiality. This means they should know what the study involves and agree to participate willingly—this is what we call informed consent.
• Informed Consent : You've got to be clear with participants about what they’re signing up for, what you’ll do with the data, and how you'll keep it confidential. Plus, they need the freedom to drop out any time they want.
• Ethical Approval : Before you even start collecting data, your research plan needs a green light from an ethics committee. This group checks that you’re set up to keep your participants safe and treated fairly.

You need to carefully calculate the costs for every aspect of your project. Make sure to include a bit extra for those just-in-case scenarios like unexpected delays or price hikes. Every dollar should have a clear purpose, so justify each part of your budget to ensure it’s all above board. This approach keeps your project on track financially and avoids any surprises down the line.

The appendices in your research proposal are where you stash all the extra documents that back up your main points. Depending on your project, this could include things like consent forms, questionnaires, measurement tools, or even a simple explanation of your study for participants. 

Just like any academic paper, your research proposal needs to include citations for all the sources you’ve referenced. Whether you call it a references list or a bibliography, the idea is the same — crediting the work that has informed your research. Make sure every source you’ve cited is listed properly, keeping everything consistent and easy to follow.

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How to Write a Research Proposal?

Whether you're new to this process or looking to refine your skills, here are some practical tips to help you create a strong and compelling proposal. 

Research Proposal Template

Here’s a simple and handy research proposal example in PDF format to help you get started and keep your work organized:

Writing a research proposal can be straightforward if you break it down into manageable steps:

• Pick a strong research proposal topic that interests you and has enough material to explore.
• Craft an engaging introduction that clearly states your research question and objectives.
• Do a thorough literature review to see how your work fits into the existing research landscape.
• Plan out your research design and method , deciding whether you’ll use qualitative or quantitative research.
• Consider the ethical aspects to ensure your research is conducted responsibly.
• Set up a budget and gather any necessary appendices to support your proposal.
• Make sure all your sources are cited properly to add credibility to your work.

If you need some extra support, DoMyEssay is ready to help with any type of paper, including crafting a strong research proposal. 

What Is a Research Proposal?

How long should a research proposal be, how do you start writing a research proposal.

Examples of Research proposals | York St John University. (n.d.). York St John University. https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research-degrees/apply/examples-of-research-proposals/

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Understanding Research Proposal Expected Outcomes: An Example

When writing a research proposal, the Expected Outcomes section is key. It shows the potential impact of your study and connects your research goals with the methods you'll use. This part of your proposal helps explain why your research matters and how it can benefit both the academic world and society.

Key Takeaways

• A clear Expected Outcomes section improves the quality of your research proposal.
• Expected outcomes help communicate the potential impact of your research.
• This section links your research objectives with your methods.
• Well-defined outcomes show the feasibility of your study.
• Crafting this section carefully can highlight both academic and societal benefits.

Significance of Expected Outcomes in Research Proposals

Enhancing proposal quality.

A well-constructed Expected Outcome section enhances the overall quality of the research proposal . It makes a compelling case for the significance and feasibility of the proposed study. This section helps you communicate the potential impact of your work, contributing not only to the academic community but also to the broader societal context.

Communicating Potential Impact

The Expected Outcome section serves to articulate the anticipated results and findings of the proposed research study. It provides a detailed preview of what you expect to achieve, contributing to the overall understanding and significance of the research. This clarity is crucial for reviewers to understand the potential impact of your study.

Contributing to Broader Contexts

Writing about the expected results of your study in your proposal is a good idea as it can help to establish the significance of your study. Based on the problems you have identified and your proposed methodology, you can describe what results can be expected from your research. While it's not possible to predict the exact outcome, you can define the overall outcome that can be expected from your research. This section serves as a crucial bridge between the research objectives, methodology, and the broader significance of the proposed research.

Crafting Clear and Precise Expected Outcomes

Creating clear and precise expected outcomes is essential for a strong research proposal. Clarity and specificity are key to ensuring that your anticipated results are well understood. This section should leave no room for ambiguity , making your research objectives achievable and credible.

Linking Research Objectives to Expected Outcomes

Establishing connections.

When you link your research objectives to the expected outcomes, you create a clear path from your initial goals to the final results. This connection helps in demonstrating how your study will address the research question and what specific results you anticipate. Establishing this link is crucial for showing the coherence of your research plan.

Aligning with Methodology

Your expected outcomes should align seamlessly with your chosen methodology. This means that the methods you use should logically lead to the results you expect. For instance, if your methodology involves surveys, the expected outcomes should reflect the kind of data surveys can provide. This alignment ensures that your research is both feasible and credible.

Ensuring Feasibility

Feasibility is a key factor when defining expected outcomes. You need to make sure that the outcomes you predict are achievable within the scope of your study. This involves considering the resources, time, and tools you have at your disposal. By ensuring feasibility, you make your research proposal more realistic and convincing.

Strategies for Writing Effective Expected Outcomes

When writing expected outcomes, it's important to understand the research topic deeply. This means you should know the problem you're addressing and how your research can provide valuable solutions . A well-crafted expected outcome section bridges your research objectives, methodology, and broader significance.

To provide potential solutions, think about the exact results your research will offer. This requires a wide knowledge and understanding of the research process. Consider the following steps:

• Clearly define the problem statement.
• Identify the specific variables, trends, or patterns you expect to find.
• Ensure your outcomes align with your research objectives and methodology.

Articulating anticipated results involves being precise and clear. This not only enhances the credibility of your proposal but also sets a solid foundation for your research. Remember, clarity is crucial as it leaves no room for ambiguity and helps communicate the potential impact of your work.

Impact of Expected Outcomes on Academic and Societal Levels

Academic contributions.

Expected outcomes in research proposals play a vital role in advancing academic knowledge. By clearly outlining the anticipated results, you help to position your research within the broader academic discourse. This not only aids in advancing knowledge in the field but also provides a foundation for future studies. Your findings can challenge existing theories or offer new insights, thereby contributing to the ongoing scholarly conversation.

Societal Benefits

Beyond academia, the expected outcomes should also address practical implications. How might your findings be applied in real-world scenarios? Will they solve practical problems or benefit society? By showcasing the potential real-world impact , you add a layer of relevance to your research. This makes your study valuable not just to academics but also to policymakers, industry professionals, and the general public.

Long-term Implications

Discussing the long-term implications of your research is equally important. How might your anticipated results pave the way for future research? Identifying potential avenues for further exploration based on your findings can help in charting future paths. This positions your research within a broader context and underscores its long-term significance.

Common Challenges in Defining Expected Outcomes

Defining expected outcomes in research proposals can be tricky. Mastering the art of writing research proposals requires careful consideration of several factors. Here are some common challenges you might face:

Overcoming Uncertainty

One of the biggest hurdles is dealing with uncertainty. Research often explores new areas, making it hard to predict exact outcomes. You need to balance optimism with realism, ensuring your expected outcomes are achievable.

Balancing Specificity and Generality

Another challenge is finding the right balance between being too specific and too general. If you're too specific, you might limit the scope of your research. On the other hand, being too general can make your proposal seem vague. Aim for a middle ground where your outcomes are clear but flexible.

Addressing Reviewer Expectations

Reviewers have high expectations and look for well-defined outcomes. They want to see that you have a clear plan and understand the potential impact of your research. Make sure your expected outcomes align with your research objectives and methodology to meet these expectations.

Examples of Well-Defined Expected Outcomes

Case study analysis.

Examining case studies of successful research proposals can provide valuable insights into crafting well-defined expected outcomes. By analyzing these examples, you can understand how to clearly articulate the anticipated results and their potential impact. This approach helps in setting clear goals and using tools for better thesis research.

Successful Proposals

Successful research proposals often share common characteristics in their expected outcomes. They are precise, realistic, and aligned with the research objectives. These proposals clearly define the expected variables, trends, or patterns, enhancing the credibility of the research. By studying these examples, you can learn how to communicate the potential impact of your work effectively.

Lessons Learned

Learning from past proposals can help you avoid common pitfalls and improve the quality of your expected outcomes. Consider the following tips for researching and organizing your thesis:

• Understand the importance of a well-defined expected outcome section.
• Set clear goals for your research.
• Use tools and resources to enhance your thesis research.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your expected outcomes are both achievable and impactful.

Clear and specific goals are key to success. For example, instead of saying "I want to do well in school," a better goal would be "I will study for two hours every day to improve my grades." This way, you know exactly what you need to do. Want more tips on setting effective goals? Visit our website and discover how you can achieve your academic dreams!

In conclusion, the Expected Outcome section is a vital part of any research proposal. It not only outlines the anticipated results but also highlights the potential impact of the study. By clearly defining what the researcher hopes to achieve, this section helps to establish the significance and feasibility of the proposed research. A well-crafted Expected Outcome section can make a compelling case for the study, showing its value to both the academic community and society at large. Therefore, it is essential for researchers to approach this section with precision and clarity, ensuring that their proposed outcomes are both realistic and meaningful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the expected outcome section in a research proposal.

The Expected Outcome section explains what results you hope to get from your study. It shows why your research matters and how it could make a difference.

Why is clarity important when describing expected outcomes?

Being clear helps others understand what you aim to achieve. It makes your proposal stronger and more convincing.

How can I write clear and precise expected outcomes?

Start by understanding your research topic well. Think about the results you expect, and describe them in simple, clear terms.

What are some common challenges in defining expected outcomes?

Some challenges include dealing with uncertainty, finding the right balance between being specific and general, and meeting what reviewers expect.

How do expected outcomes impact academic and societal levels?

Expected outcomes can add to academic knowledge and provide benefits to society. They can also have long-term effects on your field of study.

Why is it important to link research objectives to expected outcomes?

Linking objectives to outcomes shows how your research plan will achieve its goals. It helps ensure your study is doable and well thought out.

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Research and innovation menu, research and innovation, h. potential benefits of the research, research plan content.

• A. Introduction and Background
• B. Specific Aims/Study Objectives
• C. Methods, Materials and Analysis
• D. Research Population, Recruitment Methods, and Compensation
• E. Informed Consent Process
• F. Participant Privacy, Data Disposition, and Data Confidentiality
• G. Potential Research Risks or Discomforts to Participants
• I. Investigator Qualifications, Roles, and Training

The Research Plan is a narrative of the study and is a living document to be maintained over the life of the protocol. A Research Plan is required for every protocol submitted for IRB review.

• When drafting the  Research Plan , follow the format and use the section headings (i.e. A – I) provided below, refer to the bulleted items for section content.
• For each section, this guidance includes a description of why the information is important for IRB review ( in italics ).

In order to approve this research, the IRB must determine that the anticipated benefits to research participants and the knowledge researchers expect to gain are reasonable in relation to the potential risks.

Describe any anticipated benefits that may result from the research. Consider the following:

Direct benefits that may result from participation (e.g., psychological or emotional benefits, learning benefits, physical benefits, diagnostic or therapeutic benefits, etc.). If there are no direct benefits to participants, clearly state this.

Benefits to the general participant population.

General benefits of the research for society, science and humanity; potential generalizable knowledge.

Compensation for participation is not a benefit and should not be included in this section.

Analyzing the ethical and societal impacts of proposed research

An interdisciplinary Stanford team has created and seeks to scale a new Ethics and Society Review (ESR) that prompts researchers seeking funding to consider the ethical and societal impacts of their research and how to mitigate potential harms.

Currently, Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) are the main form of ethical review for research done in the United States that involves human subjects. IRBs are groups designated to review and monitor research and ensure the rights and welfare of the people taking part in the study. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s regulations, IRBs have the authority to approve, deny, or require modifications to a research project, but their scope is limited to assessing the impact the of research on the individuals in the study.

The newly proposed ESR fills a critical need by considering how proposed research could have harmful effects on society as well as positive effects. Consider the effects for example of AI algorithms on fairness in sentencing or on who is prioritized for treatments, or the effects of a proposed technology on privacy. If there are negative risks or known negative effects, how might these be anticipated and mitigated?

Earlier this year, the ESR was tested in a pilot program that reviewed proposals submitted by researchers seeking funding from the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI). The first faculty review panel included experts from fields including anthropology, communication, computer science, history, management science and engineering, medicine, philosophy, political science, and sociology. A paper published December 28 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences ( PNAS) details the findings and how the ESR could be applied in other areas of research and institutions elsewhere.

Here, four of the paper’s six co-authors, Michael Bernstein , associate professor of Computer Science in the School of Engineering ; Margaret Levi , the Sara Miller McCune Director of the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences (CASBS ); David Magnus , the Thomas A. Raffin Professor of Medicine and Biomedical Ethics at Stanford Medicine ; and Debra Satz , the Vernon R. and Lysbeth Warren Anderson Dean of the School of Humanities and Sciences discuss how the ESR came to be, why it’s needed, and the impact they hope it will have.

What is the process for the ethics and society review that you propose?

Bernstein: The engine that we usually associate with ethics review—the Institutional Review Board, or IRB—is explicitly excluded from considering long-range societal impact. So, for example, artificial intelligence projects can be pursued, published, and shared without engaging in any structured ethical or societal reflection. But even if many of these projects do not need to engage with IRBs, they need to apply for funding. The ESR is designed as a gate to funding: funding from collaborating grant programs isn't released until the researchers complete the ESR process.

Levi: The ESR depends on a partnership with a funding group that is willing to release funds to successful proposals only after the project investigators provide a statement outlining any problematic ethical implications or societal consequences of their research. Of particular interest to the review panel are mitigation strategies. If the outline is adequate, the funds are released. If the panel deems it necessary, there is iterated discussion with the panel to help figure out where there are problems, trade-offs that need to be addressed, and appropriate mitigation steps. This is more of a collaborative than a compliance model.

Why do we need an ethics review and why is the focus on potential impacts to society important?

Satz: Our current review processes do a good job of protecting individuals from unnecessary risks or harms. But some of our social problems do not show up directly as harms or risks to individuals but instead to social institutions and the general social fabric that knits our lives together. New technologies are upending the way we work and live in both positive and negative ways. Some of the negative effects are not inevitable; they depend on design choices that we can change.

Magnus: Because this is not part of the IRB process, it is easy for researchers to focus solely on the risks to individual participants without consideration of the broader implications of their research. For example, a project that was developing wearable robotic devices did a great job of considering all of the relevant risks that research participants would be exposed to and how to mitigate those. But they did not at all consider the literature on the importance of taking downstream implications of the technology (for example privacy issues that are likely to arise when implemented in real world settings that do not arise in the laboratory research setting) into account in the design process.

An interdisciplinary group of authors worked on this paper, how did that come about?

Satz: The problems posed by new technologies require input from many fields of knowledge, working together. The problems cannot be adequately addressed by ethicists or philosophers pronouncing from “on high”—removed from those creating and thinking about technology and science. We have found that deliberation among computer scientists, philosophers, political scientists, and others yields a deeper understanding of the challenges and provides better guidance for improving our practices.

Levi: All four of the faculty have been active—in different domains—in promoting standards for research that take into account ethical and societal implications, not just harms to individual subjects and participants. Within Stanford’s Ethics, Society, and Technology Hub , CASBS has been coordinating the implementation and evaluation of the ESR. Betsy Rajala , the program director of CASBS, and Charla Waeiss, a consultant to CASBS, have been the key players and are full partners in the writing of the PNAS paper.

Bernstein: What initially catalyzed this effort was an email that Debra Satz sent about a (rejected) grant that we were on, where she mentioned that IRBs were focused on risks to human subjects rather than risks to human society. Her comment gave words to much of the uncertainty I had faced in my career as a computer scientist, and it rattled around in my brain until I translated it into the basic concept of the ESR—ethics and societal review connected to grant funding. I quickly connected with Margaret Levi, who had been pursuing similar goals in the social sciences and had a strong interest in societal impacts of AI. We pitched it to the leadership of Stanford's HAI; they connected us with David Magnus, who has vast experience in ethics review, and the four of us were off to the races.

Did any of the results surprise you?

Bernstein: Two results surprised me. First, I expected substantial pushback from researchers along the lines of "you're adding red tape!" However, all the respondents to our survey were willing to submit to the ESR again in the future. Second, over half of researchers felt that the process had positively influenced the design of their research project. For a fairly lightweight process to benefit the design of half of projects was a huge—and very pleasant—surprise to me.

What’s next for the ESR?

Magnus: The biggest challenge is to find a way to make this scalable. It is one thing to do an ESR for 35 or 40 proposals, it is quite another to do 400 or 4,000. We hope this scaffolding will make it easier for researchers to think through the ethical and social issues raised by their research and identify strategies to mitigate any problems. [We also hope this process] becomes a routine part of research.

Levi: We also are eager to collaborate with other universities and firms to see how best to transfer our process broadly. In addition, we are considering ways to help researchers when they discover new ethical implications or societal consequences in the process of their research. In terms of improving the ESR, our plans are two-fold. First, we are determining ways to staff and support the faculty panels so that we are not misusing or over-demanding of faculty time. Second, and perhaps most importantly, we are building the scaffolding that will inform and transform thinking so that considering the ethical implications and societal consequences becomes second nature.

Related:  Michael Bernstein , Associate professor of Computer Science

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The Federal Executive pay scale is typically updated in January each year, and Ohio State recommends investigators immediately start using the updated Salary Cap amount in proposal budgets. However, NIH does not provide additional funding when the Salary Cap increases, so funds have to be rebudgeted to cover the increased salary costs. To mitigate to some extent the impact on awards that are flat-funded (e.g., modular grants) or awards for which the out-years were funded at a lower cap level, Ohio State has had a long-standing practice of beginning to charge projects at the new Salary Cap on July 1 each year. Fringe benefit rates also typically change on July 1, and Workday begins charging the new Salary Cap and fringe benefit rates automatically.

• Open access
• Published: 30 August 2024

“Planeterranean” diet: the new proposal for the Mediterranean-based food pyramid for Asia

• Carlotta Franchi   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6802-8710 1 , 2   na1 ,
• Francesca Orsini   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6200-4347 1   na1 ,
• Federica Cantelli 3 ,
• Ilaria Ardoino 1 ,
• Prisco Piscitelli 4 ,
• Shana Shaji 5 ,
• Tao Ran 6 ,
• Nicholas Ainslie 6 ,
• Chiara Graziadio 3 , 7 ,
• Claudia Vetrani 7 , 8   na2 &
• Annamaria Colao 3 , 7 , 8   na2  

Journal of Translational Medicine volume  22 , Article number:  806 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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Background and objectives

The Mediterranean Diet (MD) has been recognized for its benefits for human health and sustainability for the planet, but it has considered not easy to reproduce in other populations. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Chair on Health Education and Sustainable Development is fostering a research project (Planeterranea), aiming to identify a healthy dietary pattern based on local foods with the same MD features. The aim of our study is to develop a MD-based food pyramid for Asian populations.

Asia was stratified into six areas according to pedo-climatic conditions. For each region a comprehensive scoping review of local crops and typical foods was conducted on several databases such as the US Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s database, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) website, and PubMed, focusing on both plant-based and animal-based foods. Narrative review was then conducted on the identified foods to determine their nutritional composition and planetary health impact. Finally, the collected information was used to build up the Asian food pyramid with details for each respective region.

We proposed a food pyramid for Asian countries, guaranteeing the same nutritional intake and health benefits as MD, by considering dietary habits and typical foods of this population. From the bottom to the top, Asian fruits and vegetables present similar nutritional profile as those in MD. Whole grains (barley) may represent valid alternative to white rice. Sesame oil represents a source of unsaturated fats and an alternative to olive oil. Legumes (soybean), edible insects, mushrooms and algae, guarantee an adequate intake of plant-based proteins with a complete amino-acid profile and a low environmental impact with respect to animal-based ones.

Conclusions

This work is a new insight of healthy and sustainable local food system based on MD principles for the Asian population.

Introduction

The Mediterranean diet (MD), recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2010, stands as a paradigm of healthful and sustainable eating practices. Rooted in the culinary traditions and dietary patterns of the Mediterranean basin long-living population [ 1 ], the MD has garnered global attention for its association with reduced risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of tumors [ 2 ]. Furthermore, its environmentally friendly features contribute to its acclaim as a model for sustainable food consumption [ 3 ]. Achieving a consensus on the definition of the MD required extensive deliberations among representatives from various countries, facing on Mediterranean basin (i.e. Italy, France, Greece, Morocco, Israel, Lebanon, Spain, etcetera) [ 4 ].

The MD is depicted through a food pyramid that symbolizes its dietary principles. At the bottom of the pyramid there are those foods, which should be consumed at every main meal: fresh vegetables, fruits, and cereals (preferably whole or partly refined grains). At the second step those which should be consumed daily, such as olive, nuts, oilseeds, herbs and spices, in order to limit added salt), and small quantity of legumes, as main source of proteins. Dairy food (especially milk, yogurt and low-fat cheese), being rich in protein, calcium and micronutrients, should also be consumed daily in a moderate amount. Going through, there are those foods which should be consumed on a weekly basis, such as fish and seafood, poultry, and eggs, as source of animal proteins for which two to four portions for week are recommended. These are to be preferred respect to red and processed meat, which should be limited to a maximum of two weekly portions. Finally, at the top there are sweets and processed foods. Olive oil should be considered the main source of fat, both for cooking and dressing [ 5 , 6 ]. Some underrated aspects of a traditional Mediterranean diet include foods choice, preferring local production, promoting the seasonality and the biodiversity, minimally processing and preservation with natural methods (i.e. fermentation), the use of slow cooking methods (rather simple and yet extremely varied) and the preservation of culinary heritage [ 6 ].

The positive environmental MD implications are: (i) the low land and water use, and gas emissions greenhouse, triggered by the high consumption of plant-based food, even if these foods may have negative or mixed effects on different environmental pillars; (ii) the seasonality, resulting in a better ecological fingerprint of the supply and transport chains; (iii) the maintenance of biodiversity through the use of different seedings and crop rotation.

However, the above benefits, the MD adoption remains limited even within Mediterranean countries, and faces much more challenges in other regions. Just think to the unavailability of many raw materials and the high cost of imported products, beyond to culinary traditions of different countries and to cultural and social aspects strictly related to nutritionRecognizing this gap, within the frame of the UNESCO Chair on “Health Education and Sustainable Development”, aimed at fostering the transfer of knowledge on Health and Sustainability, we proposed a new healthy and sustainable dietary model, based on the MD features, called Planeterranea , [ 7 ] in which we will build up food pyramids for each continent by using typical crops and local foods, with similar nutritional profile to those of the Mediterranean diet.

Herein, we started by Asia, because it already encompasses some region (i.e. West Asia), which includes countries, that are part of the Mediterranean basin. Moreover, Asia burgeoning population and rapid economic development present unique challenges in ensuring food security, addressing malnutrition, and combating the rising tide of NCDs. China, for example, has made significant steps in addressing food security challenges in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The nation has implemented comprehensive agricultural policies to enhance food production, diversify crop varieties, and improve rural infrastructure. Efforts include investment in agricultural technology, promotion of sustainable farming practices, and development of resilient food systems. China has also focused on reducing food waste and improving food distribution networks to ensure equitable access to nutritious food. These measures contribute to the global goal of ending hunger, achieving food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture by 2030.

Against this background, this study aimed to summarize the local food produced and consumed in the different Asian regions and to develop a food pyramid for the Asian populations, that reflects the dietary traditions and local foods with the same profile of MD.

Identification of main geographical Asian areas

To better identify the local foods, Asia was divided into the following six areas, according to pedo-climatic conditions, which are known to influence cultivation and breeding: Central, East, North, South-East, South, and West Asia. The main geographic characteristics and areas are summarized in Table  1 .

Scoping review for food identification, according to the six Asian selected areas

The search strategy for Asian typical foods was set up for plant-based and for animal-based foods, separately. Firstly, the search was targeted the US Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s database ( https://ipad.fas.usda.gov/ogamaps/cropproductionmaps.aspx ) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) institutional website ( www.fao.org ) to identify the Asian food production and consumption. Secondly, additional searches were conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar using combinations of keywords specific to each category of food.

For plant-based food, keywords such as “local crop”, “fruit OR vegetables”, “edible plants”, “plant-based foods OR food plants”, “indigenous plant species”, “edible algae OR mushrooms”, “aromatic herbs OR spices”, “whole grains”, “nuts OR oilseeds”, “legumes OR pulses” were used to capture a diverse range of edible plant species commonly consumed in Asian countries.

Similarly, for animal-based food, keywords, such as “fish OR seafood products”, “meat OR cattle OR animal husbandry OR poultry meat”, “milk OR cheese OR dairy products”, “farm animals OR animal source food”, “edible insects”, “eggs” were employed to identify relevant sources.

The search strings were launched between December 2022 and September 2023, setting English language, and the last 10 years, as limits to ensure currency and relevance.

The article records, selected by two independent reviewers (FO and FC), were fulfilled in two Excel datasheets, with each entry documenting the food item, its association with a specific Asian area, the source link, and any additional notes deemed relevant by the reviewers.

Narrative review for the assessment of nutritional properties of foods and their health impact

For foods identified in point 2.2, a narrative review was conducted, focusing on its nutritional composition and its impact on human health, environment sustainability, and overall planetary health (Supplementary Tables S3-S13).

The new proposal for the Mediterranean-based food pyramid for Asia

Based on nutritional profile of local foods identified in points 2.2 and 2.3, we selected some of them in order to build up our proposal for Mediterranean-based food pyramid for Asia.

Plant-based food

The Mediterranean diet, known for its health-promoting properties, emphasizes a rich variety of plant-based foods that are central to its culinary traditions. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and olive oil constitute the cornerstone of this dietary pattern, offering a diverse array of nutrients and phytochemicals, other than essential vitamins, minerals, and fibers.

Fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are the most important sources of phenolic compounds (especially flavonoids), minerals, vitamins, and dietary fibers in the MD, which are associated with lower risk of many NCDs [ 8 ]. Acknowledging the importance of vegetables and fruits, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends to consume at least 5 portions daily [ 9 ]. From our literature review, we found some common vegetables species, such as carrots, tomatoes, cucumber, spinach, and radish, and some peculiar ones, such as Okra ( Okro Abelmoschus esculentus ), Japanese radish ( Raphanus Sativus ), Bamboo shoots ( Phyllostachys edulis ), Indian spinach ( Basella Alba ), Calabash or Bottle gourd ( Lagenaria siceraria ), and Purslane ( Portulaca oleracea ) (table S3).

As for fruits, we found some common fruits, such as apple, pomegranate, watermelon, orange. However, despite differences in specific levels of micronutrients (e.g. Kiwifruit and Sea Bucktorn are richer of vitamin C than other fruits), the nutritional value of typical Asian fruits is comparable *] +  +  +  +  + of many other Mediterranean and/or commercial fruits. Hawtorn or Crataegus ( Crataegus pinnatifida ), Kiwifruit ( Actidinia arguta ) from East Asia (EA), Jackfruit ( Artocarpus heterophyllus ) from South Asia (SA), Lychee ( Lichi chinensis ), Dragon fruit or Pytaya ( Selenicereus undatus ) from South-East Asia (SEA), Date ( Phoenix dactylifera ) from West Asia (WA), Sea buckthorn or Siberian pineapple ( Hippophae rhamnoides L.) from North Asia (NA) are all native of Asian continent (table S4). Dates, because of the high kilocalories amount and percentage of sugars, could be considered as a substitute of a dessert and then eaten less frequently than other fruits.

Whole grains

Both cereals and pseudo cereals, especially whole grains, are a healthy source of carbohydrates, fibers and bioactive peptides with anticancer, antioxidant, and antithrombotic effects [ 10 ]. In traditional MD, they provide up to 55–60% of daily caloric intake and are posed at the bottom of the food pyramid. Whole grains, which contain all the parts of the grain (bran, germ and endosperm), should be preferred. Their advantages are related to the low glycemic index, great content of fibers, essential fatty acids, vitamin-B complex, vitamin E, Iron, Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium and other bioactive components [ 11 ]. Although different varieties consumed across countries, white rice ( Oryza sativa ) is the main contributor to carbohydrate intake in Asia [ 4 ], but its consumption should be reduced both for nutritional and environmental reasons. Indeed, the worldwide production of this cereal accounts for more greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), and it requires more water than that of any other plant-based food [ 12 ].

Wheat ( Triticum ), barley ( Hordeum vulgare ), maize ( Zea Mais ), oat ( Avena sativa ), millet ( Panicum miliaceum ), sorghum ( Sorghum vulgare ) were consumed in several Asian countries, such as India, which is one of the main grain-producing countries in the world (table S5).

Aromatic herbs and spices

Aromatic herbs are essential ingredients of MD, used as food additives and condiments, and as herbal teas [ 13 ]. Herbs are rich in many phytochemical components with bioactive effects, with resulting benefits for human health, in addition to the fact that they add flavour and colour to all types of everyday meals, and they can be a pleasant and healthier substitute for salt in cooking. Some herbs used in Asia were Ginger ( Zingiber officinale ), Coriander ( Coriandrum sativum ), Tarragon ( Artemisia dracunculus ), and Saffron ( Crocus sativus  L.) (table S6).

Nuts and oilseeds

Nuts (tree nuts and peanuts) and edible seeds are nutrient-dense content foods, providing around 230–300 kcal per serving, being a typical serving equivalent to about 5 g of fats (45 kcal). These foods boast a healthy nutritional profile, rich in mono and polyunsaturated fats that have been associated with a reduced risk of cardiometabolic disorders, such as dyslipidemia, obesity, and insulin resistance [ 14 ]. Nuts selected from Asia included Pistachio ( Pistacia vera ), Peanut ( Arachis hypogaea ), Indian almond ( Terminalia catappa ), and Chinese chestnut ( Castanea mollissima ) (see table S7). Peanuts belong to the legume category, making them richer in proteins, and more nutritionally complete than other tree nuts, similar to chickpeas and soybeans [ 15 ]. Chinese chestnuts, unlike other nuts and seeds, are relatively low in calories and fats, making them suitable for use in flour and sweet preparations.

Oilseeds, on the other hand, are characterized by high lipid, protein, and fiber contents, and low levels of digestible carbohydrates. These attributes have been associated with decreased glucose and insulin peaks, low glycemic index, and high satiety [ 16 ]. Among seeds, sesame ( Sesamum indicum ) is the most frequently consumed in all Asians countries and used to produce sesame oil (see table S7). According to the Chinese Food Composition Table (2015), sesame oil has an average content of unsaturated fatty acids of 74.59%, which is comparable to that of olive oil (80%). It's important to note that olive oil is praised not only for its unsaturated fatty acids content but also for its high monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) content, ranging between 70 to 80%, while that of sesame oil is around 40 to 50%. Anyway, sesame oil is richer in flavor substances compared to olive oil, aligning well with the traditional dietary habits of Chinese consumers. Moreover, sesame oil is commercially available at a lower price than olive oil, enhancing its cost-effectiveness [ 17 ]. Finally, Gold of pleasure ( Camelina sativa ), cultivated in West Asia, is a promising Brassicaceae oil crop due to its excellent resistance and tolerance characteristics (see table S7). The promotion of nut consumption within the MD is supported by its lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to livestock farming, although recent research has highlighted their highest amount of water required [ 18 ]. Similarly, olive oil, a staple of the MD, presents environmental challenges despite being plant-based. The cultivation and processing of olives for oil production can have significant environmental impacts, including water usage and land degradation.

Legumes or pulses

Legumes or pulses, members of the Fabaceae family, play a pivotal role in daily dietary intake, offering a wealth of essential nutrients and health benefits. Not only they are low in fat, but they are also abundant sources of proteins, starches, minerals, vitamins, and fibers [ 19 ]. Crucially, legumes provide a rich source of essential amino acids, including lysine and leucine, which, when combined with cereals and other sulphur-containing amino acids foods, constitute primary source of nutritional and functional proteins. Moreover, legumes boast an impressive array of micronutrients such as calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, chromium, copper, selenium, zinc, magnesium, and folic acid, each contributing to various aspects of health and well-being. The low glycemic index of legumes, coupled with their abundance of non-nutrient phytochemicals such as saponins, phytosterols, lectins, phytoestrogens, phytates, and amylase and trypsin inhibitors, confers additional protective effects against cancer, free radicals-induced damage, cardiovascular diseases, and hypercholesteremia [ 20 ].

Importantly, the adoption of plant-source proteins from legumes offers environmental advantages by reducing land occupation and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to animal-source proteins, thereby achieving a more favorable balance between nutritional needs and environmental protection [ 21 ]. Furthermore, legumes harbor symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules, obviating the need for nitrogen fertilizers additions and promoting sustainable agriculture practices such as crop rotations [ 22 ].

Among Asian pulses, soy stands out as the most prominent, with soy foods and their isoflavones garnering attention for their potential roles in cancer and osteoporosis prevention and treatment [ 23 ]. Other notable Asian pulses include Bitter bean or Petai ( Parkia Speciose ), Blackgram ( Vigna mungo ), Chickpea ( Cicer arietinum ), Jengkol ( Archidendron pauciflorum ), Mung bean ( Vigna radiata ), and Pigeon pea ( Cajanus cajan ) (see table S8).

Mushrooms and algae

The consumption of mushrooms and green algae is very common in Asia, especially in the Eastern. Mushrooms and algae are important dietary sources of bioactive compounds, including dietary fibers, minerals, polysaccharides (e.g., β-glucans, chitin), vitamins, and antioxidants [ 24 ]. For this reason, mushrooms have a wide range of therapeutic effects: they boost immune system, lower inflammation, act as anticarcinogenic, support healthy digestion. Moreover, they have been used medicinally for antibacterial and antiviral, antioxidant, and hypoglycemic applications [ 25 ]. Their consumption can also reduce the risk of depression [ 26 ]. Edible mushrooms represent a viable option for obtaining high quality proteins, since most of them have a complete essential amino acid profile [ 27 ], and their production is usually faster and cheaper than that of animal and plant proteins. Another great advantage is its ease of growing on various substrates, generally waste from the wood, paper and agricultural industries, so its cultivation is eco-friendly [ 28 ]. We reported in table S9 the following mushrooms: Shiitake ( Lentinula edodes ), Button mushroom ( Agaricus bisporus ), and Morels ( Morchella spp. )

The high protein content of most algae and their amino acid composition make them suitable for human and animal nutrition (table S10). Microalgae have recently attracted considerable interest worldwide, due to their extensive applications in the renewable energy. There is substantial evidence for algae as nutritional and functional foods, yet still remain considerable challenges in quantifying these benefits, and in assessing potential adverse effects. Studies have indicated that blue-green algae have antiviral, antitumor, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antidiabetic, and antibacterial properties as well as lipid-lowering effects. In particular, their effects on hyperlipidemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress can contribute to the prevention of the development of CVD and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [ 29 ]. As biofuels, they are a perfect substitute to liquid fossil fuels with respect to cost, renewability, and environmental concerns. Notably, they account for more than 40% of the global carbon fixation. However, the cultivation of algae does not harm the natural environment due to the lack of the need to use pesticides and other synthetic chemical compounds, leading to disturbance of the ecosystem balance, including the extinction of species and the accumulation of xenobiotics in soil and water [ 30 ].

Animal-based food

Fish, insects, buffalo and cattle meat, poultry, eggs and diary product are an important protein source for anyone who have an omnivorous diet, and for many Asian countries (Table S2).

Chicken, duck, fish, pork, beef, mutton, and eggs are consumed by all communities in Asia except by the majority of vegetarian Hindu and a few Buddhist communities due to religion taboo.

Fish is an important nutrient source, that provide high quality proteins, vitamins and essential fatty acid that improve human health, and in MD is one of the most preferred protein and unsatured fat source. Fish exerts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and has neuroprotective, cardioprotective and hepatoprotective properties [ 31 ]. According to the MD, fish should be consumed at least three times a week, preferably wild-caught rather than farmed.

Culturally, fish is the main dish for people residing near sea coasts, rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. Traditionally, preserved fish products are largely confined to East and Southeast Asia. Fermentation, salting, drying, and smoking are the principal methods of perishable fish preservation innovated by the ethnic people of Asia to enrich their diets. Fish fermentation technology is a home-based traditional technique where varieties of fermented fish products, mostly fish sauce, are prepared and used as staple foods, side dishes, and condiments in Asia. The types of fish consumed in Asia are the most diverse according to the macro-area, and it depends on access and availability, culture habits and fish habitat (Table S11).

Edible insects

Edible insects represent a healthy and sustainable alternative protein source both for humans and animals. From a nutritional point of view, they have high amount of vitamin B12, iron, zinc, fiber, essential amino acids, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and antioxidants [ 32 ], making them good candidates for improving prevention and management of chronic diseases, like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease, and enhancing immune function. From an environmental point of view, land use, water footprint, and greenhouse gas emissions were 40–60% lower for the feed and food of edible insects than for traditional animal livestock, thereby diminishing their carbon footprint [ 33 ]. Selected insects have been studied further, such as House cricket ( Acheta domesticus ), Mealworm ( Tenebrio Molitor ), and Pulmuchi ( Locusta Migratoria ) (table S12).

Eggs and dairy products

Being a nutrient, rich in protein, cheap, and easily available food, eggs are consumed everywhere in Asia. Besides chicken eggs, eggs of other poultry species are consumed in Asian countries, such as those of duck in Mongolia and of bird in Macao, while the quail and turkey ostrich eggs in China [ 34 ].

Regarding dairy foods, there is no historical record of any ethnic fermented milk product in Japan, Korea, and many Southeast Asian countries; however, production of fermented milk products has been reported in ancient China. The consumption of milk and dairy products is very different between urban and rural centers. Cow’s, goat and sheep milk are the most common all-over Asian countries, while in Kazakhstan horse and mare’s milk and relative dairy products are consumed.

Eggs and soft (low-fat) cheeses are protein foods that can also be consumed as a substitute for meat by vegetarians. In the MD model, the ideal rule is to consume no more than 2 eggs a week, while mature cheese should rarely be consumed because it is rich in fat and cholesterol [ 35 ].

In Table S13 we summarized eggs and dairy products we found in Asian countries.

Poultry and meat

Consumption of animal-based foods, in particular meat, in Asia is mostly influenced by religions, dietary laws, such as taboos imposed on consumptions, availability of animal sources, geographical location, and environmental factors.

With three of the world's four most populous countries included in Asia and growing demand for animal proteins, the region already consumes 40% of global chicken production and intakes continue to grow, especially in South-East Asia (SEA), where the production 9.2 million metric tonnes in 2018. It is expected to reach 12.3 million metric tonnes by 2028 [ 36 ]. In SEA, duck meat is the second most consumed poultry meat after chicken meat.

Concerning the red meat, the two-humped camel is widely distributed in the arid and semi-arid areas of East and Central Asia, including China, Mongolia, Russia, and Kazakhstan, while the dromedary, or one-humped camel, is common in the desert and semi-desert regions of the Middle East (EA) and South Asia (SA).

Asia contributes the largest percentage to global sheep population and China is the leading sheep producing country and China also dominates in terms of sheep consumption followed by India. Unlike Europe, traditionally fermented meats, sausages, hams, and bacons are uncommon in Asia, except for a few in Thailand, China, India, and Bhutan.

According to the MD, white meat should be consumed 2–3 times a week, while the consumption of red or processed meat should be limited to a maximum of once a week, both for human and planet concerns. Indeed, the EAT-Lancet Commission has raised an important environmental concern linked to the excessive consumption of meat in the diet: intensive farming is attributable to the highest CO2 emissions as well as the reduction of biodiversity, and the excessive use of soil and water [ 12 ].

The new proposal of a Mediterranean food pyramid in Asia

In Fig.  1 we firstly propose a food pyramid of the MD, adapting it to Asia and its countries, by considering dietary habits linked to the specific cultural and religious beliefs, the typical foods, the tastes, and flavors, with the final goal to guarantee the same nutritional intake and health benefits for humans and the planet.

The new proposal for a Mediterranean-based food pyramid in Asia, according to six geographical areas with similar pedo-climatic characteristics

At the base of the pyramid, Asian fruits and vegetables present similar nutritional profile as those in the MD. The consumption of whole grains should be present in everyday meals and should be promoted with respect to white rice. Sesame oil, obtained both from toasted seeds and from the cold pressing of raw seeds, represents a source of unsaturated fats and an ideal alternative to olive oil, both as a condiment and for cooking foods. Legumes, in particular soybean, along with mushrooms and algae, if appropriately alternated and consumed in the right quantities (100 gr/150 gr consumed twice or three times per week), guarantee an adequate intake of plant-based proteins with a complete amino-acid profile and a better carbon footprint, to be preferred to those of animal origin. Among the latter, edible insects may represent a typical food with optimal nutritional profile and a low environmental impact.

The present article has provided a comprehensive overview of Asian local foods and beverages, that might recreate the MD nutritional profile. In addition, our approach has shown the feasibility of adapted Mediterranean-based dietary patterns, that rely on geographical, environmental, and ethnic characteristics, while respecting the basic healthy MD principles. The MD, as plant-based dietary pattern, has been appointed as a healthy diet that respect planetary boundaries. However, the adherence to MD is decreasing even in Mediterranean countries, for several reasons. First of all, the adoption of Western-style processed foods high in salt, sugar, and fat is increasing, due to their higher availability and affordability, that are particularly evident in people with lower socio-economic status and in the younger generations [ 37 ]. On the other hand, targeted nutrition public health policies (i.e. the reduction of sodium in bread, the taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages, and the change in the availability of unhealthy foods at schools and public spaces) have been prompted in several European countries, providing promising results [ 38 ]. Moreover, the MD has been long lasting considered challenging to be replicated in other non-Mediterranean countries, mainly due to several barriers. Firstly, the adoption of MD might be linked to huge modifications in eating behavior [ 37 ]. Local diets rely on cultural identity and inherent traditions as well as on diverse climate, geographic, and economic issues, contributing to food production systems and food choices of a given region. In addition, for sustainable diets, local foods should be advocated since they have reduced footprints. Consuming mainly plant-based local crops would be associated with large reductions in environmental resource use and pollution, with a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, that are usually related to intensive farming and globalization [ 12 ].

Furthermore, one of the main issues related to poor compliance with MD is the affordability of foodstuffs, that is linked to high costs for transportation and commercialization [ 39 , 40 ]. In addition, many individuals are not aware of the potential health benefits of the foods available in the local markets as well as the best methods to consume them (cooking methods, recipes, etcetera).

Planeterranea approach can help different populations to discover healthy food and beverages that are available in their countries. Accordingly, biodiversity could be protected thus preserving planetary health. Indeed, it has been reported that maintaining crop diversity can be beneficial for natural systems, agrobiodiversity, soil health, and can prevent native crop losses and potentially reduce pesticide use [ 41 ].

Therefore, the shift toward a healthier dietary pattern based on MD principles can have a pivotal role in the improvement of the nutritional profile in Asian populations, while contributing to preserve the planet health. This would be in line with the “One Health” approach proposed by WHO, that advocates the strict interplay between human, animal, and planet health [ 42 ].

In this context, the Planeterranea approach facilitates a transition towards healthier dietary patterns by addressing various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in the 2030 Agenda. By integrating local biodiversity, sociocultural dimensions, and economic considerations, our approach provides valuable insights to inform stakeholders and governance policies in the selected countries.

Limitations

Although the present study offers useful recommendations for tailoring the Mediterranean dietary pattern to the Asian contexts, it is also associated with some limitations. Firstly, even if the utilized databases reported food information with high degree of completeness, some gaps or inaccuracies could not be excluded, i.e. for non-popular and endemic foods. Secondly, nutritional profiles of some foods and their impact on human and environmental health could not be available in the literature. Finally, eating the Mediterranean diet in the Asian regions is connected to numerous cultural, geographic, and economic factors that were not fully considered by the current study.

Availability of data and materials

Not applicable.

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Acknowledgements

Funder: Project funded under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), Mission 4 Component 2 Investment 1.3—Call for proposals No. 341 of 15 March 2022 of Italian Ministry of University and Research funded by the European Union – NextGenerationEU;

Award Number: Project code PE00000003, Concession Decree No. 1550 of 11 October 2022 adopted by the Italian Ministry of University and Research, B43C22000780006, Project title “ON Foods—Research and innovation network on food and nutrition Sustainability, Safety and Security – Working ON Foods”.

Author information

Carlotta Franchi and Francesca Orsini have equally first authors.

Claudia Vetrani and Annamaria Colao have equally last authors.

Authors and Affiliations

Department of Health Policy, Laboratory of Pharmacoepidemiology and Human Nutrition, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri, 2, 20156, Milan, Italy

Carlotta Franchi, Francesca Orsini & Ilaria Ardoino

Italian Institute for Planetary Health (IIPH), Milan, Italy

Carlotta Franchi

Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Endocrinology Unit, Federico II University, Naples, Italy

Federica Cantelli, Chiara Graziadio & Annamaria Colao

UNESCO Chair on Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, Naples, Italy

Prisco Piscitelli

Kerala University of Health Sciences, Thrissur, Kerala, India

Shana Shaji

Laureate Science Alliance (LSA), Bejing, China

Tao Ran & Nicholas Ainslie

Italian Centre for the Care and Well-Being of Patients With Obesity (C.I.B.O), University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy

Chiara Graziadio, Claudia Vetrani & Annamaria Colao

Dipartimento di Scienze Umanistiche, Università Telematica Pegaso, Centro Direzionale, Via Porzio, Isola F2, 80143, Naples, Italy

Claudia Vetrani & Annamaria Colao

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CF, IA, CV conceptualised and designed the study. CF, FO, IA, CV drafted the manuscript. FO, FC made the review of the literature. All authors critically revised the manuscript, read the final version of the manuscript, and agreed upon submission for publication. All authors had full access to the data upon signing a confidentiality agreement.

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Franchi, C., Orsini, F., Cantelli, F. et al. “Planeterranean” diet: the new proposal for the Mediterranean-based food pyramid for Asia. J Transl Med 22 , 806 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12967-024-05491-2

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Ibm to shut down china r&d operations: will the stock benefit.

Per a Bloomberg release, International Business Machines Corporation IBM has recently decided to completely shut down its research and development (R&D) operations in China. This decision followed geopolitical tensions between the United States and China, affecting more than 1,000 IBM employees.

A Strategic Shift for IBM?

The closure, a part of IBM’s strategy to better serve its global clients, reflects the decreasing significance of the Chinese market for U.S. tech firms, as local clients increasingly favor domestic providers. The decision also underscores IBM's focus on expanding profit margins amid a competitive global landscape. As the Chinese economy faces a downturn and regulatory scrutiny intensifies, many other foreign firms have started shifting operations abroad. Foreign investments in China have slowed down due to concerns over Beijing's preference for local technology providers. The hardware sector is particularly sensitive in the current geopolitical climate, with the Sino-US conflict over crucial technologies, including semiconductors and artificial intelligence. The China-based team, which specializes in developing hardware, such as servers and storage systems, will likely see its functions transferred to other countries, with India being a primary recipient of these operations.

Will IBM Gain From the Proposed Move?

The company’s growth is expected to be driven primarily by analytics, cloud computing, and security in the long haul. A combination of a better business mix, improving operating leverage through productivity gains and increased investment in growth opportunities will likely drive profitability.

IBM Stock Price Performance

Shares of IBM have risen 35.6% over the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 25.4%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Zacks Rank of IBM and Key Picks

IBM currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).  Some better-ranked stocks in the broader industry have been discussed below. Arista Networks, Inc. ANET, holding a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present, supplies products to a prestigious set of customers, including Fortune 500 global companies in markets such as cloud titans, enterprises and financials, and specialty cloud service providers. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here . It delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 15.02%. In the last reported quarter, Arista delivered an earnings surprise of 8.25%. Harmonic Inc. HLIT enables media companies and service providers to deliver ultra-high-quality broadcast and OTT video services to consumers globally. It delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 32.5%. It currently sports a Zacks Rank of 1.

CommScope Holding Company, Inc. COMM is a premier provider of infrastructure solutions, including wireless and fiber optic solutions, for the core, access and edge layers of communication networks. It has a long-term growth expectation of 24.93%.  CommScope currently holds a Zacks Rank of 2.

Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report

International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) : Free Stock Analysis Report

Harmonic Inc. (HLIT) : Free Stock Analysis Report

CommScope Holding Company, Inc. (COMM) : Free Stock Analysis Report

Arista Networks, Inc. (ANET) : Free Stock Analysis Report

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Universities tear up academic calendars to offer flexible study

Changing term dates leaves staff fearing extra workload pressures and encroachments on research time and summer breaks.

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Policy and funding challenges, alongside shifting student expectations, are prompting universities to attempt radical restructures of the academic year, but some early adopters of new models are already U-turning after staff complained of higher workloads.

The University of Essex recently attracted ire for its proposed “new academic framework”, which would replace three 10-week terms with three 15-week semesters, theoretically extending annual teaching time to 45 weeks.

Leaders at the institution were quick to justify the proposal as a way of formalising the period over the summer already widely used primarily for postgraduate thesis writing and said it would result in no extra teaching load for most staff.

But academics at Essex and elsewhere remain concerned about encroachments on their research time and summer breaks, especially as universities  pivot to offer more flexible study .

Oxford Brookes University is also looking at changing its academic year and last month opened a poll for staff and students to consult them on several options, including adding a mid-semester break known as an “enrichment week” or recognising a third semester over the summer.

The University of Bristol will switch to a new format this autumn, bringing its start date for undergraduate courses forward in September to ensure the assessment period takes place before the winter break, in response to students saying they were having to spend Christmas revising.

Larra Anderson, pro vice-chancellor (education) at Essex, said its proposals were driven by a desire to simplify the system and prepare for England’s coming lifelong loan entitlement (LLE), which will  allow students to take singular modules and build up degree awards over time .

She said the existing system at Essex was “uneven” and the new model would allow the university to offer two 30-credit modules each semester.

While there were no current plans to introduce flexible start dates for undergraduates or condensed degree programmes, Professor Anderson said, she added that part of the aim of the exercise was to “futureproof” the university’s timetable and, if there was student demand for it, the new schedule could facilitate such initiatives in future – but that would be accompanied by an increase in staff numbers.

Jordan Osserman, co-chair of Essex’s University and College Union (UCU) branch, said the scale of the proposals had taken the staff “completely by surprise”.

“Essex has prided itself on being a research-intensive university, but in order to succeed in that…we need investment in research, and we need time,” he said.

“If that time gets eaten up by massive administrative changes and overhauls to how the university works, and potentially a massive increase in teaching, where are staff going to find the time to do the research that gives the university the reputation we’d like it to have?”

Professor Anderson said that one of the aims of the proposed new academic year was to reduce pressure on staff workloads and create new windows for research, with academics who needed condensed periods off to work on their scholarship potentially able to teach for only half the 15-week semester.

“Simplification has exponential benefits in terms of workloads, students’ understanding of their journey, timetabling; we’re hoping over the next few years to create space for people with other commitments, be it staff with research or students who work or commute or have caring responsibilities,” she said.

“That is a movement a lot of universities are looking at right now; going away from having to come in five days a week for an hour-long lecture to a more condensed timetable. These are the kinds of simplifications we are hoping this framework will achieve.”

In Australia, UNSW Sydney moved to a trimester system – known as UNSW +3 – in 2019, but this already looks set to be overhauled after an internal review concluded it wasn’t working.

The system – which stretched the academic year to three 10-week substantive terms and a shorter summer term – was introduced to allow some students to graduate earlier and reduce scheduled classes and exam density.

Instead, the shorter summer holiday had reduced students’ time in which they were available for paid work, had proved problematic for international students and put the university out-of-kilter with other institutions, said Richard Vickery, president of the UNSW branch of the National Tertiary Education Union.

He said the switch had also increased workloads “markedly”, especially for administrative staff, because there were more admission, timetabling and exam periods.

The transition had involved “enormous energy”, said Dr Vickery, due to the need to re-sequence courses, reimagine assessment tasks and rework content. It was yet not known what would replace UNSW +3 but a lack of teaching space meant “turning the clock back is not possible” and the fear was that all this energy “would need to be spent again”.

A UNSW spokesperson said the review of its academic calendar would continue for the next two years, with any changes likely to take effect from 2027 to allow for “ongoing consultation with the UNSW community”.

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