Criteria of Formality and Structural Elements of Research Proposals

Abstract

The preparation of research proposals is a challenge faced by anyone who wants to contribute to scientific research, since the specific requirements of different fields of study often cause technical or management aspects of research, such as obtaining funds to carry out research efforts, to be intermingled. The basis of a research proposal is the presentation and substantiation of the necessity of studying a particular problem, as well as the practical manner in which the study will be conducted. The objective of this article is to document the main attributes of each part of a research proposal. Therefore, we present a condensed and practical approach so that a research proposal can be consolidated in a document that enables the evaluation of the validity and usefulness of the planned study. Subsequently, the detailed and appropriately organized proposal will help the researcher in the development and execution of the study. This article has important implications for the development of well-structured and well-organized research proposals, which can, in turn, initiate high-quality scientific research efforts across all disciplines of science education.