Research Methodology

Writing a Research Proposal

A well written proposal is half the work done for your dissertation it defines in a clear, concise manner WHAT (research problem and subproblems) WHY (why now, why you) HOW (methodology, expected results) how the research will be conducted

 You must see your research project like an architect sees the house before digging a tiny hole

What should a research proposal contain?

Problem statement
Stating sub-problems Stating hypothesis &/or research questions Delimiting the research Defining the terms Stating the assumptions

The status of the art of the actual research/literature review Introduce proposed research design/methodology Introduce a proposed structure/ table of contents Introduce the time line Bibliography

Characteristics
Straightforward document
Describe the problem and its proposed solution Write for clarity not impressiveness Use a clear and precise language

Clear organization
Simple paragraph form - One thought = one paragraph Proper use of headings and subheadings - Guide the reader Material should be presented in a clear and progressive fashion Use different heading styles for different levels Check requirements

Let us get to the writing

Adhere to guidelines
Headings, style, inclusion of certain information 3 pages excluding the cover page, table of contents and biography

Present the research problem at the beginning of the first chapter

The problem is the core of the proposal

Convince the reader

Generate interest

Let us get to the writing

Assume the reader knows nothing
Do not leave out critical information Answer all questions which might arise

Describe methods in detail

Outline sources of data Procedures

Describe the methodology

How do you plan to organize, analyze, and interpret the data How do you plan to solve the research problem

Describe how the data will be obtained

Exact location of data Determine that you have access to it Do not assume everything will be available

Use appendices
Move necessary details which are not central to the paper Maintain preciseness without sacrificing clarity

Revising Your Proposal

Keep sentences short
Break up long sentences into smaller ones

Choose words carefully

Use a thesaurus Short words are preferred to long ones

Edit for clarity

Define abbreviations Use transitions between paragraphs and sections Do not bury your point underneath long introductory clauses

Automatic spell-check is good, but not enough

Manually check for errors in formulas, figures etc.