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How to Propose your Research
How to Write a Research Proposal
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A research proposal outlines your planned study, explaining what you aim to explore, why it matters to your field, and how you’ll carry it out.
Follow our expert advice and guidance to help you write yours.
Who needs to write a research proposal?
You’ll usually need to write a research proposal if you’re applying to propose your own research.
Your proposal needs to convince supervisors and funders that your research is original, valuable, and feasible.
If you’re an
occasional student
you’ll also need to write a research proposal.
If you’re applying for an advertised PhD, you normally won’t need to write such a document. The project’s aims and objectives are already defined and a supervisor has usually been assigned.
What to include in your research proposal
A good starting point is learning the core elements and essential structure of a research proposal.
A strong research proposal (typically 1,000–2,000 words) should:
present a
clear, focused, and original
research question
explain
why your research is important
and how it contributes to your field
describe the
data, sources, or materials
you’ll use
outline your
methods
and approach
state
what you aim to discover
by the end of your project
Step-by-step guide to writing an effective research proposal
Follow our step-by-step guide to planning, writing and refining your proposal.
It’s time to turn your idea into a research plan.
If your proposal is successful,
you’ll
have the opportunity to refine and strengthen it during your first few months at Newcastle University.
Step 1: Identify a clear research topic
choose a topic that interests you and fills a gap in existing knowledge
ensure it is specific, manageable, and researchable
Step 2: Conduct a literature review
summarise existing research related to your topic
identify gaps or unresolved questions
demonstrate that your research will contribute something new
keep your review focused and organised
Step 3: Propose your research title
define your research problem or question
formulate a clear, concise, and focused research question
this question should guide your entire proposal
Step 4: State your research objectives
list specific objectives your study aims to achieve
make sure they are aligned with your research question
explain why you think it is important to conduct this research project – how does it fill a gap or solve a problem?
highlight potential benefits for academia, society, or policy
explain why this should take place at Newcastle University – outline academics or research groups that you feel are relevant
Step 5: Choose your research methodology
decide whether your study is qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods
explain your data collection methods (surveys, interviews, experiments, etc)
describe sampling techniques, instruments, and procedures
address any safety or ethical considerations if applicable
outline if you would need any training in any of the methodology proposed
Step 6: Write the proposal structure
A typical research proposal includes:
Title:
concise and descriptive
Abstract:
brief summary
Introduction:
background, significance, and problem statement
Literature review:
summary of previous research and gaps
Research question/objectives:
clear and precise
Methodology:
design, data collection, analysis, ethical issues
Expected results/outcomes:
what you hope to discover
Timeline:
realistic plan for completing each stage
Budget
: estimated costs
References:
and bibliography
Step 7: Plan a realistic timeline
break down your project into phases (e.g. literature review, data collection, analysis, writing etc)
include start and end dates for each task
show that your project is feasible within the available time
Step 8: Proofread and revise
ensure clarity, coherence, and conciseness
check for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors
ask a mentor, colleague, or friend to review it for feedback
Step 9: Follow submission guidelines
adhere strictly to the format, length, and style required
include all required sections and documents
the research proposal can only be accepted for consideration when it is accompanied by a completed
Newcastle University Postgraduate Application Form
How your proposal will be assessed
Your research proposal will be carefully reviewed by our academic schools.
They’ll also consider whether they have the right expertise and resources to support your chosen area of study - ensuring your project can thrive in the right environment.
Tips for success
be clear and concise - avoid unnecessary jargon
show originality and relevance
align objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes
demonstrate feasibility and your capability to complete the project
find your supervisor
look for funding at the same time as writing your proposal (if needed)
Don’t forget - research proposal requirements vary. If you're unsure what to include, contact the relevant research admissions team for guidance.
How to apply
Our step by step guide on how to apply with your research proposal
Application portal
Once you're ready to apply, head to our application portal
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