research proposal topic selection

151+ Research Proposal Topics [Updated 2024]

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

How to Select Research Proposal Topics?

Table of Contents

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

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

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

151+ Research Proposal Topics: Category Wise

Science and technology.

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

Health and Medicine

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

Social Sciences

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

Business and Economics

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

Environment and Sustainability

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

Psychology and Behavior

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

Political Science and International Relations

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

History and Cultural Studies

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

Communication and Media Studies

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

Philosophy and Ethics

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

Education Policy and Administration

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

Economics and Development Studies

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

Criminal Justice and Law

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

Public Health and Epidemiology

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

Computer Science

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

How to Compose a Research Proposal?

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

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

Tips for Composing a Research Proposal

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

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

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

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How to Select a Research Topic: A Step-by-Step Guide (2021)

by Antony W

September 15, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Select a Research Topic

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

Step 1: Consider a Topic that Interests You

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

An interesting topic should meet two very important conditions.

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

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

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

Step 2: Brainstorm Your Topics

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

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

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

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

Step 3: Define Your Topics

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

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

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

Narrow down your list to topics that are:

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

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

Step 4: Read Background Information of Selected Topics

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

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

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

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

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

Get Research Paper Writing Help

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

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

About the author

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

Selecting a Research Topic: Overview

Refine your topic
Background information & facts
Writing help

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

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

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

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

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

Start here for help

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

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

Writing and Research: Choosing a Topic

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

Header Image

Using Wikipedia to Generate Topic Ideas

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

Additional Resources on Choosing Topics

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

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

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

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

Research Proposals

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

<< Previous: Getting Started
Next: Creating an Outline >>
Last Updated: Dec 5, 2022 11:05 AM
URL: https://paperpile.libguides.com/writing-research

Research Process: An Overview: Choosing a Topic

Choosing a Topic
Refining Your Topic
Finding Information
Evaluating Your Sources
Database Searching
APA Citation This link opens in a new window
Topic selection
Brainstorm Questions
Tip: Keywords
Finding Topic Ideas Online

Read Background Information

Tip: keywords.

Keywords are the main terms that describe your research question or topic. Keep track of these words so you can use them when searching for books and articles.

Identify the main concepts in your research question. Typically there should only be two or three main concepts.
Look for keywords that best describe these concepts.
You can look for keywords when reading background information or encyclopedia articles on your topic
Use a thesaurus, your textbook and subject headings in databases to find different keywords.

Related Research Guides

APA Citation

Click through the tabs to learn the basics, find examples, and watch video tutorials.

English Writing Skills

This guide supports academic and business writing, including a basic review of grammar fundamentals, writing guides, video tutorials on business writing, and resources for the TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE exams.

Getting Started

Topic selection.

Choosing your topic is the first step in the research process. Be aware that selecting a good topic may not be easy. It must be narrow and focused enough to be interesting, yet broad enough to find adequate information.

For help getting started on the writing process go to the GGU Online Writing Lab (Writing tutor) where you can set up and appointment with a writing tutor.

#1 Research ti p: Pick a topic that interests you. You are going to live with this topic for weeks while you research, read, and write your assignment. Choose something that will hold your interest and that you might even be excited about. Your attitude towards your topic will come across in your writing or presentation!

Brainstorming is a technique you can use to help you generate ideas. Below are brainstorming exercises and resources to help you come up with research topic ideas.

Brainstorming Topic Ideas

Ask yourself the following questions to help you generate topic ideas:.

Do you have a strong opinion on a current social or political controversy?
Did you read or see a news story recently that has interested you?
Do you have a personal issue, problem or interest that you would like to know more about?
Is there an aspect of one of your classes that you would like to learn more about?

Finding Topic Ideas

Topic ideas.

Try the resources below to help you get ideas for possible research topics:

CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window Coverage of the most important issues and controversies of the day, including pro-con analysis. Help Video
Google News This site provides national and international news on a variety of subjects gathered from over 4,000 sources.
Article & News Databases Use the Library's Articles and News databases to browse contents of current magazines and newspapers. If you do not know how to browse current issues ask a librarian for help.

Background Information

Read an encyclopedia article on the top two or three topics you are considering. Reading a broad summary enables you to get an overview of the topic and see how your idea relates to broader, narrower, and related issues. If you cant find an article on your topic, ask a librarian for help.

Gale eBooks The Gale Virtual Reference Library contains several business focused encyclopedias such as The Encyclopedia of Management and The Encyclopedia of Emerging Industries which may provide background information on possible topics.
Article & News Databases Use the Library's Articles and News databases to search for brief articles on your topic ideas.
SAGE Knowledge Hundreds of encyclopedias and handbooks on key topics in the social and behavioral sciences. User Guide

SAGE Research Methods

Ask A Librarian

Email questions to [email protected] .

Available during normal business hours.

LIBRARY HOURS

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Last Updated: Apr 17, 2024 1:45 PM
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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).

A research proposal is a formal document that explains what you plan to research , why it's worth researching and how you'll do it.

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 .

Free Webinar: How To Write A Research Proposal

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 .

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51 Comments

I truly enjoyed this video, as it was eye-opening to what I have to do in the preparation of preparing a Research proposal.

I would be interested in getting some coaching.

I real appreciate on your elaboration on how to develop research proposal,the video explains each steps clearly.

Thank you for the video. It really assisted me and my niece. I am a PhD candidate and she is an undergraduate student. It is at times, very difficult to guide a family member but with this video, my job is done.

In view of the above, I welcome more coaching.

Wonderful guidelines, thanks

This is very helpful. Would love to continue even as I prepare for starting my masters next year.

Thanks for the work done, the text was helpful to me

Bundle of thanks to you for the research proposal guide it was really good and useful if it is possible please send me the sample of research proposal

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

Thanks alot. It was an eye opener that came timely enough before my imminent proposal defense. Thanks, again

thank you very much your lesson is very interested may God be with you

I am an undergraduate student (First Degree) preparing to write my project,this video and explanation had shed more light to me thanks for your efforts keep it up.

Very useful. I am grateful.

this is a very a good guidance on research proposal, for sure i have learnt something

Wonderful guidelines for writing a research proposal, I am a student of m.phil( education), this guideline is suitable for me. Thanks

You’re welcome 🙂

Thank you, this was so helpful.

A really great and insightful video. It opened my eyes as to how to write a research paper. I would like to receive more guidance for writing my research paper from your esteemed faculty.

Thank you, great insights

Thank you, great insights, thank you so much, feeling edified

Wow thank you, great insights, thanks a lot

Thank you. This is a great insight. I am a student preparing for a PhD program. I am requested to write my Research Proposal as part of what I am required to submit before my unconditional admission. I am grateful having listened to this video which will go a long way in helping me to actually choose a topic of interest and not just any topic as well as to narrow down the topic and be specific about it. I indeed need more of this especially as am trying to choose a topic suitable for a DBA am about embarking on. Thank you once more. The video is indeed helpful.

Have learnt a lot just at the right time. Thank you so much.

thank you very much ,because have learn a lot things concerning research proposal and be blessed u for your time that you providing to help us

Hi. For my MSc medical education research, please evaluate this topic for me: Training Needs Assessment of Faculty in Medical Training Institutions in Kericho and Bomet Counties

I have really learnt a lot based on research proposal and it’s formulation

Thank you. I learn much from the proposal since it is applied

Your effort is much appreciated – you have good articulation.

You have good articulation.

I do applaud your simplified method of explaining the subject matter, which indeed has broaden my understanding of the subject matter. Definitely this would enable me writing a sellable research proposal.

This really helping

Great! I liked your tutoring on how to find a research topic and how to write a research proposal. Precise and concise. Thank you very much. Will certainly share this with my students. Research made simple indeed.

Thank you very much. I an now assist my students effectively.

Thank you very much. I can now assist my students effectively.

I need any research proposal

Thank you for these videos. I will need chapter by chapter assistance in writing my MSc dissertation

Very helpfull

the videos are very good and straight forward

thanks so much for this wonderful presentations, i really enjoyed it to the fullest wish to learn more from you

Thank you very much. I learned a lot from your lecture.

I really enjoy the in-depth knowledge on research proposal you have given. me. You have indeed broaden my understanding and skills. Thank you

interesting session this has equipped me with knowledge as i head for exams in an hour’s time, am sure i get A++

This article was most informative and easy to understand. I now have a good idea of how to write my research proposal.

Thank you very much.

Wow, this literature is very resourceful and interesting to read. I enjoyed it and I intend reading it every now then.

Thank you for the clarity

Thank you. Very helpful.

Thank you very much for this essential piece. I need 1o1 coaching, unfortunately, your service is not available in my country. Anyways, a very important eye-opener. I really enjoyed it. A thumb up to Gradcoach

What is JAM? Please explain.

Thank you so much for these videos. They are extremely helpful! God bless!

very very wonderful…

thank you for the video but i need a written example

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