The Proposal Body

Introduction

The Introduction should clearly state the purpose of the proposal, the reasons that this proposal is being presented, and the scope of the proposal. It should also introduce the major topics discussed in the proposal and provide some background and context for these topics. Describe the situation that exists now, and introduce the general needs that the proposal will address.

Problem Statement

Clearly articulate the specific situation that you will be addressing with this proposal. Keep in mind the following questions:

What is the purpose of the proposal? (Are you suggesting a research project or project that will provide a service to an organization? Are you requesting funding, suggesting a change in organization policy or a correction to existing procedures, or some other kind of action?)
What is the need for this proposal? How will it improve the current situation?
Who will be affected by this proposal? What do you anticipate the effects will be?
What is the scope of the proposal? (Clearly articulate the boundaries of your project.)
How is your proposal organized? (Give your reader a preview of what's included in the rest of the document.)

Project Goals and Objectives

List the specific goals that you intend to accomplish by performing this project. Describe the final product that you will generate.

Project Plan: Tasks, Methods, Timelines

Describe in detail the specific tasks that will be performed as part of this project. In addition, outline your methods for performing these tasks. For example, if you are conducting a research project, describe how you will gather your data--through surveys, interviews, observational research, etc. Finally, provide a timeline that gives specific dates when major tasks will be completed.

Project Evaluation

Once you have completed your project, how will you evaluate its effectiveness? Provide some description of the criteria that you will use to analyze the outcomes of this project.

Project Resources

What will you need to complete this project? Be sure to include all the necessary resources, such as time, personnel, funds, and equipment.

Proposal Conclusion

In your conclusion, restate the purpose of the proposal and the intended outcome of the project. Emphasize how it will benefit the organization and request the reader's feedback on the proposal.

Supplemental Materials

If appropriate, include any supporting materials--such as tables of data, photographs, graphics, etc.--that help to clarify your proposal. These can be included as appendices to your proposal.

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